Augmenting Moieties for Anti-Inflammatory Compounds

ABSTRACT

Augmented or synergized anti-inflammatory constructs are disclosed including anti-inflammatory amino acids covalently conjugated with other anti-inflammatory molecules such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, vanilloids and ketone bodies. Further conjugation with a choline bioisostere or an additional anti-inflammatory moiety further augments the anti-inflammatory activity.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a Continuation-In-Part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/776,857, filed on Sep. 15, 2015, which is the U.S. National Phase of International Patent Application Ser. No. PCT/US14/28329, filed on Mar. 14, 2014, which claims the benefit of priority under 35 U.S.C. 119(e) of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/790,870, filed on Mar. 15, 2013, and of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/793,842, filed on Mar. 15, 2013. The disclosures of all of the above are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

This invention was made with government support under Grant No. U54AR055073 awarded by the National Institutes of Health. The government has certain rights in the invention.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention is directed to anti-inflammatory compounds which are synergistically enhanced in their anti-inflammatory activity through conjugation with specific amino acids and/or with specific other anti-inflammatory components. Also disclosed are methods of increasing the activity of an anti-inflammatory compound, which involve conjugating the anti-inflammatory compound with an amino acid and optionally further conjugating with a choline bioisostere, or conjugating one, two or more anti-inflammatory compounds with each other, for example, terpene, amino acid, vanilloid, or polyamine.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The term “anti-inflammatory” refers to the property of a compound that reduces inflammation. Anti-inflammatory drugs make up about half of analgesics, remedying pain by reducing inflammation.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are a class of drugs that provide analgesic and antipyretic (fever-reducing) effects, and, in higher doses, anti-inflammatory effects. The term “nonsteroidal” distinguishes these drugs from steroids, which, among a broad range of other effects, have a similar eicosanoid-depressing, anti-inflammatory action. As analgesics, NSAIDs are unusual in that they are non-narcotic. The most prominent members of the NSAID group of drugs are aspirin, ibuprofen and naproxen.

The widespread use of NSAIDs has meant that the adverse effects of these drugs are well known and have become increasingly prevalent as the population ages. The two main adverse drug reactions (ADRs) associated with NSAID use are gastrointestinal (GI) and renal effects. These effects are dose-dependent and, in many cases, severe enough to pose the risk of ulcer perforation, upper gastrointestinal bleeding, and death, thereby limiting the use of NSAID therapy. An estimated 10-20% of NSAID patients experience dyspepsia, and NSAID-associated upper GI adverse events are estimated to result in 103,000 hospitalizations and 16,500 deaths per year in the United States and represent 43% of drug-related emergency visits. Thus, the clinical problems with NSAIDs and the need for replacement anti-inflammatories are well recognized.

For at least these reasons, it would be desirable to find substitutes for the current NSAIDs having increased anti-inflammatory potency and a higher safety margin.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It has now been discovered that one solution to this problem is to improve the potency and safety of anti-inflammatory compounds through the covalent combination of component anti-inflammatory moieties and/or conjugation with a specific amino acid, optionally with further conjugation with a choline bioisostere.

Aspect I

Terpenes, amino acids, aliphatic polyamines such as spermine and spermidine, and vanilloid platforms (e.g., 4-hydroxy-3-methoxybenzyl amine, commonly called vanillylamine; 4-hydroxy-3-methoxybenzyl alcohol, commonly called vanillyl alcohol; zingerone; [6]-paradol; and eugenol), are known to display modest anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive activity in animal and cellular models. In addition, aliphatic and alicyclic carbamates are known to be inhibitors of fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), an enzyme whose inhibition is linked to anti-inflammatory effects. Thus, the individual components of the anti-inflammatory constructs of a first aspect of the invention, and the bonds that link them all together, provide a therapeutic benefit that can be greater than the sum of the parts.

It has now been discovered that the double and triple combinations of these anti-inflammatory components covalently linked together with at least one carbamate bond yields an augmented anti-inflammatory molecule whose net activity exceeds that of its individual building blocks. Some of these assemblies exceed the anti-inflammatory effects of the traditional NSAIDs.

The specific structural assemblies claimed herein include:

Formula 1 terpene—vanilloid

Formula 2 vanilloid—polyamine—vanilloid

Formula 3 vanilloid—amino acid—terpene

Formula 4 terpene—polyamine—terpene

Formula 5 vanilloid—amino acid—vanilloid

Formula 6 terpene—amino acid—terpene

Formula 7 terpene—amino acid—vanilloid

In one embodiment, the carbamate-linked structures have the following general structures:

Formula 1A terpene—(carbamate)—vanilloid

Formula 2A vanilloid—(carbamate)—polyamine—(carbamate)—vanilloid

Formula 3A vanilloid—(carbamate)—amino acid—(ester)—terpene

Formula 4A terpene—(carbamate)—polyamine—(carbamate)—terpene

Formula 5A vanilloid—(carbamate)—amino acid—(amide)—vanilloid

Formula 6A terpene—(carbamate)—amino acid—(ester)—terpene

Formula 7A terpene—(carbamate)—amino acid—(amide)—vanilloid

Specific examples of the components usable in construction of Formulae 1 to 7 and 1A to 7A anti-inflammatory conjugates include the following.

For terpenes: The terpene of the synergistic anti-inflammatory drug conjugate is selected from the group consisting of thymol, carvacrol, menthol, geraniol, nerol, farnesol, myrtenol, cumyl alcohol, citronellol, borneol, linalool, alpha-terpineol, and perillyl alcohol. If the drug construct contains more than one terpene molecule, they may be different or the same.

For vanilloids: The vanilloid moiety of the synergistic anti-inflammatory drug conjugate is selected from the group consisting of 4-hydroxy-3-methoxybenzyl amine commonly called vanillylamine, 4-hydroxy-3-methoxybenzyl alcohol commonly called vanillyl alcohol, zingerone, [6]-paradol, and eugenol. If the drug construct contains more than one vanilloid molecule, they may be different or the same.

For polyamines: The polyamine anti-inflammatory component is selected from the group consisting of spermidine, spermine and putrescine.

For amino acids: The amino acid anti-inflammatory moiety is selected from valine, leucine, isoleucine, glycine, cysteine, phenylalanine, norvaline, and other suitable amino acids known to possess anti-inflammatory activity. The amino acids can be chiral or racemic. The chirality of the chiral amino acids can be L- or R- depending on the desired activity and release profile.

Aspect II

A second aspect of the present invention is directed to the surprising discovery that conjugation of certain anti-inflammatory moieties, especially NSAIDs, vanilloids, and ketone bodies, with selected amino acids, and optionally further conjugated with a choline bioisostere, synergistically increases the anti-inflammatory activity of the conjugate, when compared to the anti-inflammatory drug itself.

Thus, one embodiment of the present invention is directed to a synergistic anti-inflammatory drug—amino acid conjugate, comprising (a) at least one anti-inflammatory compound, and (b) at least one amino acid covalently linked to the anti-inflammatory compound, where the anti-inflammatory activity of the conjugate is greater than the activity of the anti-inflammatory compound alone. The synergistic anti-inflammatory drug—amino acid conjugate can further incorporate a choline bioisostere (e.g., the 3,3-dimethylbutyl moiety, —OCH₂CH₂C(CH₃)₃, or it's silicon analog, —OCH₂CH₂Si(CH₃)₃), preferably as the ester, so that another embodiment of the present invention is directed to a synergistic anti-inflammatory drug—amino acid—choline bioisostere conjugate, comprising (a) the anti-inflammatory drug—amino acid conjugate above, and (b) a choline bioisosteric ester, covalently linked to the amino acid carboxyl of said anti-inflammatory drug—amino acid conjugate.

In one embodiment the amino acid is covalently linked to the platform therapeutic agent through an amino or carboxyl group as either an amide or an ester moiety.

In one embodiment the amino acid of the synergistic anti-inflammatory drug—amino acid conjugate is selected from the group consisting of valine, nor-valine, leucine, iso-leucine, glycine, cysteine, proline and phenylalanine.

In one embodiment the anti-inflammatory compound is selected from the group consisting of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), vanilloids, and ketone bodies. In a particular embodiment, the NSAID is selected from the group consisting of diclofenac, ibuprofen, naproxen, and indomethacin. The vanilloid is selected from vanillyl alcohol, phenolic hydroxyl-protected vanillyl alcohol (3-methoxy-4-acetyloxybenzyl alcohol), and vanillylamine. The ketone body is selected from 3-hydroxybutyrate or a homologue thereof. Vanillyl alcohol and vanillylamine are both known to possess anti-inflammatory properties. So-called “ketone bodies” of which 3-hydroxybutyric acid is a prime example, have been increasingly recognized as possessing anti-inflammatory properties.

In one embodiment, the synergistic anti-inflammatory drug—amino acid conjugate has the structure of Formula (I):

Formula (I)

AI-NH—CHR—C(═O)O-Q¹

where AI represents an anti-inflammatory drug moiety such as an NSAID-CO—, a vanillyl moiety, or 3-hydroxybutyryl, where R is selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, optionally substituted alkyl, optionally substituted cycloalkyl, optionally substituted aryl, and optionally substituted heteroaryl, and where Q¹ can be selected from hydrogen, alkyl or heteroalkyl. In one specific embodiment, Q¹=—CH₂CH₂C(CH₃)₃. Examples of this embodiment include NDH 4476, 4535, 4537, 4572, 4576, 4577, 4578, 4591, 4595, 4596, 4613, 4614, 4615, 4617, 4618, 4619, 4627, 4628, 4651, 4652, 4653, and 4654 as referenced herein.

In another embodiment, the synergistic anti-inflammatory drug—amino acid conjugate has the structure of Formula (II):

Formula (II)

AI-NH—CHR—C(═O)—NH-Q²

where AI represents an anti-inflammatory moiety (viz, NSAID-CO—, vanillyl alcohol-CO—, and such ketone bodies as 3-hydroxybutyryl); R is selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, optionally substituted alkyl, optionally substituted cycloalkyl, optionally substituted aryl, and optionally substituted heteroaryl; Q² is selected from hydrogen or the vanillyl moiety (i.e., 3-methoxy-4-hydroxybenzyl), —CH₂CH₂C(CH₃)₃ or —CH₂CH₂Si(CH₃)₃. If vanillylamine (i.e., 3-methoxy-4-hydroxybenzyl-NH—) is attached to any of these anti-inflammatory amino acid platforms it constitutes a shelf-stable, slowly metabolized moiety. However, if vanillyl alcohol (i.e., 3-methoxy-4-hydroxybenzyl-O—) is attached, the resulting candidate pharmaceuticals are unstable unless the free-phenolic hydroxyl is protected by acylation. Acetate is a preferred protecting group and the derived products are suitable therapeutic candidates. Examples of this embodiment include NDH 4479, 4483, and 4571 as referenced herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION Aspect I

Surprisingly, it has now been discovered that weak anti-inflammatory moieties can be covalently linked by carbamate bonds to yield conjugate constructs of enhanced potency for suppression of inflammation.

One aspect of the present invention is directed to an anti-inflammatory conjugate where the anti-inflammatory component comprises at least one compound selected from the group consisting of anti-inflammatory terpenes, anti-inflammatory vanilloids, anti-inflammatory polyamines and anti-inflammatory amino acids.

A related aspect of the invention is directed to a method of improving the potency of an anti-inflammatory compound by linking it to another anti-inflammatory compound via a carbamate linkage, where the potency of the conjugate is greater than the sum of its parts.

In one embodiment of the present invention the terpene, amino acid, vanilloid, or polyamine is not employed as a single component but as an augmenting component, covalently linked by a carbamate moiety to another anti-inflammatory moiety or to two other anti-inflammatory moieties, wherein they together serve to enhance or synergize performance. The conjugates may be bifunctional (meaning just two moieties) or tri-functional (meaning three components), or higher. In addition the carbamate linking bond itself can also convey anti-inflammatory activity to the conjugate.

Carbamate compounds are known to achieve anti-inflammation effect in vivo by inhibition of fatty acid amide hydrolase. In an inhibitory screen against fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), the inventive carbamates were found to possess IC₅₀ values which ranged from 9 μM to 1 mM for inhibition of FAAH. Some molecules were too lipophilic to dissolve in the enzyme assay medium and hence could not be tested. While there was no direct linear correlation between the compound's efficacy as an FAAH inhibitor and its potency in suppressing inflammation, many of the best inflammation suppressants were also FAAH inhibitors. The FAAH IC₅₀ values are noted with the compound examples.

Hydrolysis of the conjugates can release the terpene and any other co-anti-inflammatories to affect the therapeutic benefit in vivo. Unfortunately, in several cases hydrolysis was too fast (of the order of minutes) to make the compounds practical as pharmaceuticals and stabilization of the conjugate had to be addressed.

For example, as exemplified by the structures NDH4481, 4483, and 4485, if one attempts the incorporation into a conjugate of the vanilloid vanillyl alcohol (also known as 4-hydroxy-3-methoxybenzyl alcohol) through its benzyl alcohol component (the —CH₂OH), a conjugate is produced that is rapidly hydrolyzed. It is known that 4-hydroxy benzyl-X systems [e.g., p-HO—Ar—CH₂—X], wherein X is a good leaving group, can rapidly decompose via a quinone methide intermediate. Capping the phenolic hydroxyl with an acetate group solves the problem, and hydrolysis lifetimes of >2 hours are then observed. This problem is not observed with the vanillylamines when linked through their amino nitrogens; these are stable materials.

A second case of decomposition that is too rapid can be seen in NDH4590 and 4593. Even though these compounds have impressive anti-inflammatory effects in the Mouse Ear Vesicant Model (MEVM) assay, their half-lives in sera or in any polar aqueous medium are comparatively short (hours). We have discovered that this is because the nucleophilic internal secondary amine NH executes an intramolecular nucleophilic attack on the carbonyl of the carbamate thereby freeing the terpene or the vanilloid component. This is a controllable, or tunable, chemically-induced hydrolysis that does not require an enzyme.

These compounds possess a terpene or vanilloid carbamate at both ends of the molecule in each case. With the unsymmetrical polyamine we have found that the cyclization occurs to form the six-membered ring only (versus a seven-membered ring).

Either making a salt (such as the trifluoroacetate, hydrochloride, mesylate, or other pharmaceutically acceptable salt) or a labile amide (for example, the trifluoroacetamide, trinitrobenzamide, or tris-trifluorobenzamide) on the internal NH solves the problem, and sufficiently long hydrolysis half-lives are then observed (days). The anti-inflammatory activity was unaffected by these stabilizing modifications, only the time of on-set of the effect was varied (cf. NDH4616, 4622, 4630, 4631, 4635, 4637 and 4649). Half-life for release can be controlled or tuned as noted above, by protonation or amide formation, but it can also be controlled by varying the nature of the anti-inflammatory leaving group. For example, zingerone is released much faster (half-life about 2 hours) than are carvacrol or thymol (half-lives about 2 days), which in turn are released much faster than an aliphatic terpene such as geraniol or borneol (marginal release after several days). The kinetics of release follow the typical organic moiety “leaving group” abilities.

Aspect II

Surprisingly, it has now been discovered that selected amino acids (for example valine, leucine, isoleucine, glycine, cysteine, phenylalanine, proline and norvaline) potentiate or synergize the activity of anti-inflammatory drugs when covalently attached to the parent drug molecules. When attached to known anti-inflammatory moieties, these amino acids augment, or synergize, the anti-inflammatory potency, provide a bio-compatible controlled-release, and permit adjustment of the pharmacologic properties of the parent anti-inflammatory drug.

Thus, in a second aspect of the invention, the amino acid can be used as a “capping” group on an anti-inflammatory such as a NSAID, a vanillyl alcohol or a vanillylamine. In one embodiment, the amino acid can be attached through its amino group to a carboxyl group in the platform anti-inflammatory molecule leaving a pendant carboxyl from the amino acid which can be free (Q¹=H) or can be esterified (Q¹=alkyl) for enhancement of properties or for ease of handling. A preferred alkyl group is a choline mimic, such as —CH₂CH₂C(CH₃)₃ or its silicon bioisostere,

—CH₂CH₂Si(CH₃)₃. In one specific embodiment, constructs or scaffolds of this type can be characterized as shown in Formula (I):

Formula (I)

AI-NH—CHR—C(═O)O-Q¹

In a second embodiment, herein called Formula (II), when one anti-inflammatory compound contains an amino group, such as in the transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily V member 1 (TRPV1) inhibitor vanillylamine, the amino acid augmentation moiety can be linked via its carboxyl resulting in a pendant amino to which can be attached a second anti-inflammatory component such as an NSAID-CO—, a vanillyl alcohol-CO—, or a 3-hydroxybutyryl (3-HB) unit (as representative of a ketone body).

Formula (II)

AI-NH—CHR—C(═O)—NH-Q²

NDH 4571 in which 3-BB is mounted on a valine platform linked to a vanilloid, diplayed a 69% suppression of chloroethyl ethyl sulfide (CEES)-induced inflammation at the standard test dosage in the MEVM, considerably higher than any of the fragment pieces of that conjugate.

Present Embodiments

One aspect of the invention is directed to an anti-inflammatory drug—amino acid conjugate, comprising: (a) at least one anti-inflammatory compound conjugated with (b) an augmenting moiety comprising an anti-inflammatory amino acid selected from the group consisting of valine, nor-valine, leucine, iso-leucine, glycine, cysteine, proline and phenylalanine; wherein conjugation is via the nitrogen atom of the amino acid of the augmenting moiety; and wherein the anti-inflammatory activity of the conjugate is greater than the sum of its parts. Preferably the anti-inflammatory drug—amino acid conjugate contains a core anti-inflammatory amino acid, with supplemental anti-inflammatory agents or moieties covalently attached to both the carboxylic acid group and the amino group, where these supplemental anti-inflammatory morieties or agents are not amino acids. The inventive conjugate can also have a dipeptide core rather than a monomeric amino acid, but the core is not a higher oligopeptide or a protein. Thus, not only the anti-inflammatory monomeric amino acids but also di-peptides containing at least one of the anti-inflammatory amino acids constitute useful bi-functional platforms to carry the supplemental anti-inflammatory moieties. Such dipeptides include, for example, valyl valine, valyl glycine, valyl alanine, valyl proline, valyl phenylalanine, glycyl valine, prolyl valine, phenylalanyl valine, isoleucyl valine, alanyl valine, glycyl proline, prolyl glycine, glycyl phenylalanine, phenylalanyl glycine, prolyl phenylalanine, phenylalanyl proline and related bis-amino acid units.

With regard to amino acid chemistry it is commonly understood that the verb “to conjugate” refers to reacting an amino substituent in one conjugation partner with a carboxylic acid substituent (or suitably activated carboxylate group) on a second conjugation partner, with elimination of a small molecule (typically water), thereby joining the two partners via an amide bond. Similarly, the verb “to conjugate” also signifies “to join together” in grammar, as in “to conjugate a verb”. Thus in chemistry, a conjugate is a chemical compound that has been formed by the joining of two or more compounds.

In one embodiment the amino acid of the anti-inflammatory drug—amino acid conjugate is selected from the group consisting of valine, glycine, proline and phenylalanine. Preferably the amino acid is valine or proline or phenylalanine. More preferably the amino acid is valine or phenylalanine. In one embodiment the amino acid is valine. In another embodiment the amino acid is phenylalanine.

In one embodiment the augmenting moiety is an amino acid ester of the choline bioisosteres HOCH₂CH₂C(CH₃)₃ or HOCH₂CH₂Si(CH₃)₃, or an amino acid amide of the choline bioisosteres H₂NCH₂CH₂C(CH₃)₃ or H₂NCH₂CH₂Si(CH₃)₃. In another embodiment the augmenting moiety is a valine ester or amide. In another embodiment the augmenting moiety is a phenylalanine ester or amide. In another embodiment the augmenting moiety is a proline ester or amide. In one embodiment the augmenting moiety is an amino acid ester or amide of a vanilloid. Preferably the vanilloid is selected from the group consisting of vanillyl alcohol, vanillyl amine and phenol-protected derivatives thereof. Phenol-protected derivatives include O-acylated analogs, such as acetyloxy (also known as “acetoxy”) and benzoyloxy compounds.

In one embodiment the anti-inflammatory compound is selected from the group consisting of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), anti-inflammatory vanilloids and ketone bodies. In one embodiment the NSAID is selected from the group consisting of diclofenac, ibuprofen, naproxen, and indomethacin. In another embodiment the vanilloid is selected from the group consisting of vanillyl alcohol, 3-methoxy-4-acetyloxybenzyl alcohol, and vanillylamine. In yet another embodiment the ketone body is selected from the group consisting of 3-hydroxybutyrate and homologues thereof. “Ketone bodies” such as 3-hydroxybutyrate and acetoacetate are produced as metabolites of fatty acids in the liver. 3-Hydroxybutyrate has inherent anti-inflammatory activity. For purposes of the present disclosure, a “homologue” is defined as a compound belonging to a series of compounds differing from each other by one or more methylene (—CH₂—) groups, for example by a single methylene group. Thus 4-hydroxypentanoate and 3-hydroxypentanoate are both higher homologues of 3-hydroxybutyrate, depending on where in the carbon chain the methylene group has been inserted with respect to the hydroxy-bearing carbon of 3-hydroxybutyrate.

In addition to NSAIDs, vanilloids and ketone bodies, other useful anti-inflammatory compounds include anti-inflammatory terpenes (e.g., geraniol, thymol, carvacrol, etc), anti-inflammatory hydroxy-cinnamic acids (e.g., ferulic acid, caffeic acid, and p-coumaric acid), anti-oxidants (e.g., cathecins/catechins and flavanols), indole-3-carbinol, pentoxifylline, and anti-inflammatory fatty acids (e.g., ricinoleic, palmitoleic, and docosahexaenoic).

A related aspect of the invention is directed to an anti-inflammatory drug—amino acid conjugate comprising: (a) an anti-inflammatory compound conjugated with (b) an augmenting moiety comprising an amino acid ester or amide, wherein conjugation is via the nitrogen atom of the amino acid of the augmenting moiety; wherein the amino acid ester or amide is selected from the group consisting of esters and amides of valine, glycine, proline and phenylalanine, wherein the anti-inflammatory compound is selected from the group consisting of (1) the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs diclofenac, ibuprofen, naproxen, and indomethacin; (2) the vanilliods vanillyl alcohol, 3-methoxy-4-acetyloxybenzyl alcohol, and vanillylamine; and (3) the ketone bodies 3-hydroxybutyrate and homologues thereof; andwherein the anti-inflammatory activity of the conjugate is greater than the sum of its parts.

One aspect of the invention is directed to an anti-inflammatory drug—amino acid conjugate having the structure of Formula (I), AI-NH—CHR—C(═O)—O-Q¹, wherein AI represents an anti-inflammatory drug moiety selected from the group consisting of an NSAID-CO— moiety, a vanillyl-CO— moiety and a 3-hydroxybutyroyl moiety; wherein R is selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, isopropyl and benzyl; and wherein Q¹ is selected from the group consisting of alkyl and heteroalkyl. In this aspect the augmenting moiety is an anti-inflammatory amino acid ester. In one embodiment Q¹ is —CH₂CH₂C(CH₃)₃ or —CH₂CH₂Si(CH₃)₃. In one embodiment, for the NSAID-CO— moiety, the NSAID is selected from the group consisting of diclofenac, naproxen and indomethacin.

A related aspect of the invention is direct to an anti-inflammatory drug—amino acid conjugate having the structure of Formula (II), AI-NH—CHR—C(═O)—NH-Q², wherein AI represents an anti-inflammatory drug moiety selected from the group consisting of an NSAID-CO— moiety, a vanillyl-CO— moiety and a 3-hydroxybutyroyl moiety; wherein R is selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, isopropyl and benzyl; and Q² is 3-methoxy-4-hydroxybenzyl, —CH₂CH₂C(CH₃)₃, or —CH₂CH₂Si(CH₃)₃. In this aspect the augmenting moiety is an anti-inflammatory amino acid amide. Preferably the anti-inflammatory amino acid amide is not an oligopeptide or a protein, but is a single anti-inflammatory amino acid, or at most a dipeptide containing at least one anti-inflammatory amino acid, reacted with an organic amine with the elimination of water to form an amide bond. The organic amine is preferably a primary or secondary amine. In one embodiment, for the NSAID-CO— moiety, the NSAID is selected from the group consisting of diclofenac, ibuprofen, naproxen and indomethacin.

Another aspect of the invention is directed to a method of increasing the activity of an anti-inflammatory drug, comprising conjugating the anti-inflammatory drug with an amino acid augmenting moiety to provide an amino acid conjugate of Formula (I) or Formula (II). In one embodiment Q¹ of Formula (I) is selected from the group consisting of —CH₂CH₂C(CH₃)₃ and —CH₂CH₂Si(CH₃)₃. In one embodiment Q² of Formula (II) is —CH₂CH₂C(CH₃)₃ or —CH₂CH₂Si(CH₃)₃.

Another aspect of the invention is directed to an anti-inflammatory drug—amino acid conjugate selected from the group consisting of:

Compounds such as NDH4481 and NDH4535 are simple ethyl esters rather than the more complex 3,3-dimethylbutyl or vanillyl alcohol esters. It is now recognized that ethanol itself possesses anti-inflammatory activity in humans, and therefore serves as an anti-inflammatory augmenting moiety in the anti-inflammatory drug—amino acid conjugate.

Preferably the anti-inflammatory drug—amino acid conjugate is selected from the group consisting of:

In one embodiment the anti-inflammatory drug—amino acid conjugate is NDH4479. In another embodiment the anti-inflammatory drug—amino acid conjugate is NDH4481. In yet another embodiment the anti-inflammatory drug—amino acid conjugate is NDH4483. In a further embodiment the anti-inflammatory drug—amino acid conjugate is NDH4486.

EXAMPLES Materials and Methods

All reactants and solvents used were of the highest purity commercial grade and were employed without further purification. All amino acids used herein were the L-amino acids and were purchased from Sigma-Aldrich (Saint Louis, Mo.). The 2-(2-methoxynaphthalene-6-yl) propanoic acid (naproxen) used was the (S)-enantiomer. All other reagents were used as racemates, unless otherwise noted. All reactions were performed in oven-dried apparatus under a nitrogen atmosphere, unless otherwise noted. All solvents used were anhydrous, unless otherwise noted. NMR spectra were recorded on a Bruker multinuclear spectrometer and chemical shifts are reported as ppm using tetramethylsilane (TMS) as an internal standard. ¹H NMR spectra were recorded at 500 MHz, while ¹³C NMR spectra were recorded at 125 MHz. Elemental analyses were performed at Intertek (Whitehouse, N.J.). All thin layer chromatography (TLC) was performed on Analtech silica gel plates (250 microns).

Biological Evaluations Ellman Assay

The modified Ellman assay for inhibition of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and the mouse ear vesication assay (MEVA) have been described in detail by us (see S. C. Young et al, J Appl Tox, 2012, 32: 135-141). AChE (Type V-S from electrophorus electricus), acetylthiocholine iodide (ATChI), 5,5′-dithiobis(2-nitrobenzoic acid) (DTNB) and tacrine from EMD Chemicals (Gibbstown, N.J.). Cholinesterase inhibition was assayed spectrophotometrically at 412 nm according to Ellman's method. Assays were performed in polystyrene 96-well plates (Corning 96-well flat transparent) and a conventional micro-plate reader was employed for kinetic readings (Tecan Infinite 200 multimode). The following reagents were added to the wells: 200 μL of 0.5 mM DTNB in sodium phosphate buffer (100 mM, pH 8), 30 μL of inhibitor stock solution in methanol, 20 μL of 1.25 units/mL of AChE in sodium phosphate buffer (20 mM, pH 7), and 50 μL of 3 mM ATCh in buffer (100 mM, pH 8). Immediately after the substrate was added, the absorption signal was measured at 30 s intervals over 5 min at 25° C. Percentage inhibition was calculated relative to a negative control (methanol). The background signal was measured in control wells containing every reagent except for the substrate. IC₅₀ values were obtained from a minimum of eight concentrations in duplicate and by fitting the experimental data with a dose-response curve using Prism software (Version 5.00, GraphPad Software, San Diego, Calif.).

Mouse Ear Vesicant Model (MEVM)

Animal studies were approved by the Rutgers University Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee and received human care in compliance with the institution's guidelines, as outlined in the Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals of the National Academy of Sciences. Compounds were assessed as inhibitors of inflammation using the MEVM as previously described (Casillas, R P., et al., Therapeutic approaches to dermatotoxicity by sulfur mustard. 1.Modulaton of sulfur mustard-induced cutaneous injury in the mouse ear vesicant model, J. Appl. Toxicol., 2000, 20, Suppl 1, S145-51), except that female CD-1 mice (4-6 weeks old) were used. Either CEES, chloroethyl ethyl sulfide (65 μmoles) or TPA, 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate, (1.5 nmol) was used to induce inflammation. To evaluate each compound, ears (3-4 mice per group) were treated with 20 μL, of vehicle control (methylene chloride or acetone) or the test compound (1.5 μmol) in 20 μL, of the appropriate vehicle. After 5 h, mice were euthanized and ear punches (6 mm in diameter) were taken and weighed. Once the raw data were obtained, masses of ear punches were averaged and the percent reduction of vesicant-induced edema and inflammation was calculated using the method of Casillas et al. Raw data were analyzed using a one-way ANOVA to evaluate statistical significance (P<0.05).

Inflammation suppression, if observed, is of course dose related but is reported herein only at the standard dose mentioned above. On occasion, mostly with ibuprofen analogs, the vesicant-induced damage is augmented by the candidate anti-inflammatory and these substances are designated as irritants. Also, in some cases the anti-inflammatory candidate suppresses the mean weight of the ear punches from the test ears below that observed with the untreated control and these results are stated as >100% suppression.

Examples of Aspect I

The bifunctional and tri-functional conjugates of Aspect I of the invention were prepared and tested in a standard in vivo MEVM assay for their efficacy compared to that of the parent terpene, amino acid, polyamine, or vanilloid from which each was assembled. Terpene inflammation suppression scores (average of TPA-induced and CEES-induced injuries) ranged from myrtenol (6%), thymol (14%), carvacrol (15%), cumyl alcohol (16%), geraniol (35%), menthol (38%), perillyl alcohol (43%), and farnesol (69%). All terpenes, except farnesol, had inflammation suppression scores less than 45%. The inflammation scores of typical vanilloids were similarly low and none exceeded 40%, e.g., vanillin (11%), vanillyl alcohol (31%), and vanillylamine (35%). In this assay inflammation suppression scores for the amino acids and the polyamines were under 30%. The traditional NSAIDs were under 40% in inflammation suppression scores, e.g., ibuprofen (−23%, an irritant/inflammation inducer), S-naproxen (31%), piroxicam (32%), diclofenac (37%), and indomethacin (39%).

The synergistic effects of combination of weakly potent anti-inflammatory components into conjugates are readily evident in the compounds of the invention. As an example of the Formula 1 class recited earlier herein, the terpene carvacrol by itself displayed inflammation suppression of 19% and 10% for CEES and TPA-induced inflammation respectively while its carbamate conjugate with vanillylamine (NDH4574) showed a significantly improved suppression of 89% and 88% (CEES and TPA).

Another Formula 1 conjugate combines the terpene linalool to the vanilloid, vanillylamine, to yield the construct (NDH4624) which displayed a 92% suppression of CEES-induced inflammation.

As another example of the Formula 1 conjugate, the terpene (geraniol) coupled to the vanilloid (vanillylamine) by a carbamate linkage and designated as NDH4484 had a 64% suppression (CEES-induced injury) and a 71 μM inhibition of fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH).

Similarly, a Formula 1 example involving perillyl alcohol showed the same trend with an inflammation suppression score of 43% (for the parent “free” terpene) while its carbamate conjugate with vanillylamine (NDH4498) showed an enhanced suppression of 53% (CEES) and 76% (TPA). This carbamate showed an IC₅₀ for inhibition of fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) of 14 μM.

The Formula 2 conjugates (vanilloid-polyamine-vanilloid) can be illustrated by the construct of eugenol-spermidine-eugenol (NDH4635) which displays an inflammation suppression of 73% (CEES-induced inflammation) and zingerone-spermidine-zingerone

(NDH4637) which displays an 89% suppression against CEES-induced and 93% suppression against TPA-induced inflammation. The salt is needed to slow hydrolytic release of the zingerone.

A tri-functional conjugate, NDH4486, (a Formula 3 example), in which the terpene geraniol (35% inflammation suppression score as unconjugated terpene molecule) was linked to the amino acid valine by a carbamate linkage and thence to the vanilloid vanillylamine, proved especially potent (91%) in suppression of TPA-induced inflammation in the mouse ear.

As an example of the Formula 4 conjugates, when carvacrol was linked as a bis-derivative to the well-known polyamine, spermidine, the inflammation suppression of the combined moiety increased to 71% against CEES-induced and 110% against TPA induced inflammatory injury (see NDH4593 shown below). The naturally occurring polyamines such as putrescine, spermidine, and spermine can display anti-inflammatory effects either as free molecular entities or as conjugates with all trans-retinoic acid. These effects are clearly augmented by attachment to terpenes through carbamate linkages.

In addition, in a Formula 4 example, thymol displayed an inflammation suppression score of 14% while its carbamate conjugate with spermidine (NDH4590) showed an impressive and complete inflammation suppression of 100% against either CEES or TPA-induced injury.

Slower to hydrolyze and to liberate the terpene moiety are the trifluoroacetate salts or amides as exemplified by the carvacrol-spermidine conjugate, NDH4622, with

83% (CEES) and 100% (TPA). The similarly stabilized carvacrol-spermine bis trifluoroacetate salt conjugate, NDH4631, was assayed with 84% (CEES) and 89% (TPA) values.

The covalently-attached trifluoroacetyl (as an amide) yields a very stable thymol-spermidine conjugate, NDH4616, which retained considerable anti-inflammatory activity, 76% (TPA).

As an example of a Formula 5 compound, NDH4483 links two vanilloid units (vanillyl alcohol and vanillylamine) to a core valine unit. The inflammation suppression was 67% (TPA) and the FAAH IC₅₀ was 1.0 mM. The hydrolysis half-life without the acetyl group attached to the para-hydroxyl of the vanillyl alcohol moiety was under 5 minutes in physiological saline.

A modification of this Formula 5 compound in which the vanillylamine portion has been deleted (NDH4481) had the same hydrolytic instability—unless the p-hydroxyl group was acetylated—

and possessed the same FAAH IC₅₀ of 1.0 mM but with a slightly improved inflammation suppression of 72% (CEES-induced) and 93% (TPA-induced).

As an example of a Formula 6 compound, NDH 4648 joins the terpene carvacrol to the amino acid valine by a carbamate bond and thence joins the terpene farnesol to that same amino acid by an ester bond.

As an example of a Formula 7 compound, NDH 4486 links the terpene geraniol to the amino acid valine by a carbamate bond and thence joins the vanilloid vanillylamine to that same amino acid by an amide bond. The resulting conjugate showed an inflammation suppression of 91% (TPA-induced).

Aspect I Synthesis

The compounds of the invention were synthesized by the pathways outlined in Schemes 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5, using the application of a thiazolide to transfer the —COOR unit to the polyamine, amine, or amino acid unit. The activated thiazoline is synthesized as shown in Scheme 2 if the terpene being transferred has a secondary hydroxyl group, otherwise the pathway as shown in Scheme 1 is suitable. Scheme 3 shows the transfer pathway for —COOR moiety to the polyamines; similar chemistry applies for transfer to amino acids. Scheme 3 shows how the internal secondary NH in the polyamine can have its nucleophilicity suppressed by salt formation or acetamide formation in order to prevent auto-decomposition. Scheme 4 shows how terpene and/or vanilloid moieties are transferred to an amino acid platform compound. Scheme 5 shows how terpene moieties are directly linked to vanilloid moieties (vanillylamine as example) to generate conjugates of Formula 1.

Specific examples selected from the seven Formulae of conjugates have been presented herein but these do not represent the limits of the structural possibilities. Table 1 provides examples of a wider range of synthetic targets obtainable by the experimental methods described herein and consistent with the seven Formulae of conjugates disclosed herein. Systematic names are provided for these anti-inflammatories. Table 1 includes the compounds discussed herein.

TABLE 1 Structural diversity consistent with the formulae of Aspect I conjugates of the invention

NDH4616

NDH4622

NDH4630

NDH4635

NDH4637

NDH4649

NDH4631

NDH4638

NDH4639

NDH4640

NDH4641

NDH4642

NDH4647

NDH4648

NDH4486

Preparation of Trifluoroacetic Acid Salts of Polyamines A) Formation of Protected Carbamates

The polyamine (spermidine or spermine) was weighed into a round bottom flask containing a stirring bar. The amine was dissolved in dry dichloromethane (CH₂Cl₂) (10 mL/mmol). To the stirred solution at room temperature were added two equivalents of an alkyl or aryl 2-thioxo-1,3-thiazolidine-3-carboxylate (hereafter referred to as a thiazolidine carbamate) which rendered a yellow solution. The progress of the reaction was monitored by the loss of the yellow color as well as by TLC which revealed the release of 2-mercaptothiazoline (MTA) and the disappearance of the thiazolidine carbamate. After the first step was complete triethylamine (1 equivalent) was added to the reaction flask followed by the addition of Boc anhydride (Boc₂) (1 equivalent). Once the second step was complete, as noted by TLC, the reaction solution was diluted with CH₂Cl₂, and the resulting solution was extracted with 1N HCl and then saturated NaCl. The organic layer was dried over MgSO₄ (anhydrous), filtered, concentrated on the rotary evaporator and dried under vacuum. The crude material was covered with a solution of 7:3, hexanes/ethyl acetate (EtOAc) in order to crystallize out the released MTA. The supernatant was drawn off and concentrated. The product was purified by column chromatography on silica gel eluting with 7:3, hexanes/EtOAc. 1. NDH 4622: R_(f)=0.32 (7:3, hexanes/EtOAc); Yield=76%. 2. NDH 4630: R_(f)=0.39 (7:3, hexanes/EtOAc); Yield=57%. 3. NDH 4649: R_(f)=0.27 (7:3, hexanes/EtOAc); Yield=63%. 4. NDH 4631: Removal of MTA from the crude material was accomplished using 3:2, hexanes/EtOAc. Column purification was carried out using 96:4, CH₂Cl₂/acetone as eluant. R_(f)=0.25 (96:4, CH₂Cl₂/acetone); Yield=83%. 5. NDH 4635: The crude material was purified by column chromatography, without removing MTA, first using 98:2, CH₂Cl₂/MeOH and for the second column 96:4, CH₂Cl₂/acetone. R_(f)=0.21 (96:4, CH₂Cl₂/acetone): Yield=77%. 6. NDH 4637: The crude material was purified by column chromatography, without removing MTA, using a gradient of 94:6, CH₂Cl₂/acetone to 9:1, CH₂Cl₂/acetone and then 97:3, CH₂Cl₂/MeOH. R_(f)=0.06 (95:5, CH₂Cl₂/acetone); Yield=100%. 7. NDH 4616: Upon completion of the first step, 1.5 equivalents of ethyl trifluoroacetate were added in place of the Boc₂ and triethylamine, and the reaction mixture was stirred overnight. The product crystallized out of the reaction, and was collected by suction filtration and rinsed with CH₂Cl₂. Exact mass (ESI) calculated for C₂₉H₄₄N₃O₄ [M+H] 498.3326 found 498.3334. The exact mass represents the compound resulting from loss of the trifluoroacetyl group. R_(f)=0.70 (9:1, CH₂Cl₂/MeOH): mp=190-191° C.; Yield=51%.

B) Formation of Trifluoroacetic Acid (TFA) Salts

The Boc-containing protected carbamate was dissolved in anhydrous CH₂Cl₂ (20 mL/mmol). Trifluoroacetic acid (4 mL/mmol) was added at room temperature. The reaction solution was stirred, and the progress of the reaction was monitored by TLC (7:3, hexanes/EtOAc). The deprotection was complete in 1-2 h. The volatiles were removed by distillation employing an aspirator vacuum. The residue was frozen on liquid N₂ and dried under high vacuum. The dry product was covered with diisopropyl ether and the solid that separated was triturated and collected by suction filtration. 1. NDH 4622: Exact mass (ESI) calculated for C₂₉H₄₄N₃O₄ [M+H] 498.3326, found 498.3334. White powder; Yield=68%. 2. NDH 4631: Exact mass (ESI) calculated for C₃₂H₅₁N₄O₄ [M+H] 555.3905, found 555.3896. White solid; Yield=72%. 3. NDH 4649: Exact mass (ESI) calculated for C₂₉H₄₄N₃O₄ [M+H] 498.3326, found 498.3324. White solid; Yield=95% 4. NDH 4630: Exact mass (ESI) calculated for C₂₉H₅₂N₃O₄ [M+H] 506.3952, found 506.3973. Viscous oil; Yield=100%. 5. NDH 4635: The reaction was monitored by using 98:2, CH₂Cl₂/MeOH as the TLC solvent. The crude residue was covered with diethyl ether and triturated in order to isolate the pure product. Exact mass (ESI) calculated for C₂₉H₄₀N₃O₆ [M+H] 526.2912, found 526.2944. White powder; Yield=88%. 6. NDH 4637: The reaction was monitored using 96:4, CH₂Cl₂/acetone as the TLC solvent. The crude residue was covered with diethyl ether and triturated in order to isolate the pure product. Exact mass (ESI) calculated for C₃₁H₄₄N₃O₈ [M+H] 586.3123, found 586.3141. White solid; Yield=85%.

NMR Data 1) NDH 4622

¹HNMR (methanol-d₄) δ: 7.14-7.10 (m, 2H, 2xArH-3), 7.02-6.98 (m, 2H, 2xArH-4), 6.88-6.83 (m, 2H, 2xArH-6), 3.22 (bt, 2H, HNCH₂CH₂CH₂N), 3.11-3.02 (m, 4H, CH₂NHCH₂), 2.89-2.81 (m, 2H, 2xHC(CH₃)₂), 2.15-2.11 (overlapping singlets, 6H, 2xAr-CH₃), 1.97-1.89 (m, 2H, NHCH₂CH₂CH₂NH), 1.79-1.69 (m, 2H, NHCH₂CH₂CH₂—CH₂NHCO), 1.69-1.60 (m,2H, NHCH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂NHCO), and 1.22-1.18 (overlapping doublets, 12H, ³J=6.9 Hz, 2xArCH(CH₃)₂). Note: The protons OCHNCH₂CH₂CH₂NH are masked beneath the methanol-d₄ CH₃ peak centered at δ3.30.

2) NDH 4630

¹HNMR (CDCl₃+D₂O) δ: 3.31 (bt, 2H, OCHNCH₂CH₂CH₂NH), 3.17 (t, 2H, ³J=6.70 Hz, NHCH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂NHCO), 3.05-2.92 (m, 4H, CH₂NHCH₂), 2.36-2.24 (m, 2x1H, 3-H exo), 1.98-1.90 (m, 2H, NHCH₂CH₂CH₂NH), 1.90-1.55 (m, 10 H, NHCH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂NHCO, 2xbornyl H-4, 2xbornyl H-5 exo and 2xbornyl H-6 endo), 1.30-1.16 (m, 4H, 2xbornyl H-5 endo and 2xbornyl H-6 exo), 1.00-0.94 (m, 2H, 2xbornyl H-3 endo), 0.88-0.86 (bd, 6H, 2xbornyl C-7 CH₃), 0.85-0.83 (bd, 6H, 2xbornyl C-7 CH₃) and 0.81 (bs, 6H, 2xbornyl C-1 CH₃). Note: The bornyl C-2 protons are masked beneath the D₂O peak.

3) NDH 4631

¹HNMR (methanol-d₄) δ: 7.16-7.10 (bd, 2H, 2xArH-3), 7.04-6.98 (m, 2H, 2xArH-4), 6.89-6.84 (bd, 2H, 2xAr-6), 3.11-2.99, (m, 8H, CH₂NCH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂NCH₂), 2.90-2.81 (m, 2H, 2xCH(CH₃)₂), 2.14 (bs, 6H, 2xArCH₃), 1.97-1.89 (m, 4H, 2xNCH₂CH₂CH₂N), 1.80-1.72 (m, 4H, NCH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂N), and 1.21 (bd, 12H, ³J=6.95 Hz, 2xHC(CH₃)₂). Note: The protons 2xOCNHCH₂ are masked beneath the methanol-d₄ CH₃ peak centered at δ3.30.

4) NDH 4635

¹HNMR (methanol-d₄) δ: 6.98-6.90 (2 sets of doublets, 2H, ³J=8.0 and 8.05 Hz, 2xArH-6), 6.90-6.84 (2 sets of doublets, 2H, ⁴J=1.65 Hz, 2xArH-3), 6.79-6.71 (m, 2H, 2xArH-5), 60.1-5.90 (m, 2H, 2xCH₂═CH), 5.12-5.01 (m, 4H, 2xCH₂═CH), 3.80 (s, 3H, Ar-OCH₃), 3.78 (s, 3H, Ar-OCH₃), 3.36 (overlapping doublets, 4H, ³J=6.65 Hz, 2xArCH₂—CH═CH₂), 3.22-3.16 (m, 2H, NHCH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂NHCO), 3.12-3.00 (m, 4H, CH₂NHCH₂), 1.97-1.87 (m, 2H, NCH₂CH₂CH₂N), 1.80-1.68 (m, 2H, NHCH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂NHCO), and 1.67-1.57 (m, 2H, NHCH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂NHCO). Note: The protons OCHNCH₂CH₂CH₂NH are masked beneath the methanol-d₄ CH₃ peak centered at δ3.30.

5) NDH 4637

¹HNMR (methanol-d₄) δ: 6.96-6.87 (m,4H, 2xArH-3 and 2xArH-6), 6.80-6.73 (m, 2H, 2xArH-5), 3.84-3.74 (m, 6H, 2xAr—OCH₃), 3.21-3.14 (m, 2H, OCHNCH₂CH₂CH₂NH), 3.12-3.00 (m, 4H, CH₂NHCH₂), 2.88-2.76 (m, 8H, 2xArCH₂CH₂CO), 2.12-2.11 (overlapping singlets, 6H, 2xCOCH₃), 1.96-1.85 (m, 2H, NCH₂CH₂CH₂N), 1.79-1.68 (m, 2H, NHCH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂NHCO) and 1.67-1.58 (m, 2H, NHCH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂NHCO). Note: The protons OCHNCH₂CH₂CH₂NH are masked beneath the methanol-d₄ CH₃ peak centered at δ3.30.

6) NDH 4649

¹HNMR (methanol-d₄) δ: 7.24-7.13 (m, 2H, ArH-3), 7.06-6.95 (m, 2H, ArH-4), 6.86-6.75 (m, 2H, ArH-6), 3.25-3.21 (m, 2H, NHCH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂NHCO), 3.13-2.98 (m, 6H, 2xCH(CH₃)₂ and CH₂NHCH₂), 2.30 (bs, 6H, 2xArCH₃), 1.99-1.88 (m, 2H, NCH₂CH₂CH₂N), 1.82-1.70 (m, 2H, NHCH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂NCO) and 1.70-1.60 (m, 2H, NHCH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂NCO). Note: The protons OCNCH₂CH₂CH₂NH are masked beneath the methanol-d₄ CH₃ peak centered at δ3.30. 7) NDH 4616 ¹HNMR (acetone-d₆) δ: 7.22 (bs, 2H (partially exchanged), 2xNH), 7.17 (apparent triplet, 2H, ³J=7.4 Hz, 2xArH-3), 6.98 (apparent triplet, 2H, ³J=7.8 Hz, 2xArH-4), 6.87 (s, 1H, ArH-6), 6.84 (s, 1H, ArH-6), 3.41-3.35 (m, 2H, HNCH₂CH₂CH₂N), 3.28-3.16 (m, 6H, NHCH₂CH₂CH₂NCH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂NH), 3.10-3.04 (m, 2H, Ar—CH(CH₃)₂), 2.08 (m, 2H, HNCH₂CH₂CH₂N), 1.93-1.84 (m, 2H, —NCH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂NH—), 1.72-1.65 (m, 2H, —NCH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂NH—) and 1.20-1.12 (overlapping doublets, 12H, ³J=6.85 Hz, 2xArCH(CH₃)₂).

Preparation of Valine-Based Compounds

A flask containing a stirring bar was charged with the N-acyl thiazolidine-2-thione (1 eq) and L-valine (1.05 eq). To the flask was added THF (5 mL/mmol of the N-acyl thiazol-idine-2-thione), and the mixture was stirred until all the N-acyl thiazolidine-2-thione dissolved. Water (5 mL/mmol) was then added followed by N,N-diisopropylethylamine (2 eq), and the resulting two-phase system was stirred vigorously at room temperature. The progress of the reaction was monitored by TLC (9:1, CH₂Cl₂/MeOH, v/v) and by the disappearance of the yellow color originating from the N-acyl thiazolidine-2-thione. When the reaction was complete, the solution was diluted with CH₂Cl₂ and extracted with 1N HCl. The organic layer was concentrated on the rotary evaporator, the residue taken up in Et₂O, and the resulting ether layer was extracted with saturated NaHCO₃. The aqueous layer was then washed with Et₂O. The aqueous phase was acidified to pH=2-3 with 4N HCl. The resulting mixture was extracted with CH₂Cl₂. The organic layer was dried over MgSO₄ (anhydrous), filtered, concentrated on the rotary evaporator and dried under high vacuum. The product was used in the next step without further purification.

The N-acylated amino acid (1 eq), 1-Hydroxybenzotriazole (HOBt) (1.05 eq) and HMBA hydrochloride (1.05 eq) were placed in a round bottom flask equipped with a stirring bar and fitted with a rubber septum. Dry CH₂Cl₂ (4 mL/mmol) and NEt₃ (1.05 eq) were added under positive N₂ pressure via a syringe through the rubber septum. The flask was immersed in an ice bath, and the reaction mixture was stirred. After sufficient chilling, 1-Ethyl-3-(3-dimethylaminopropyl)carbodiimide (EDC) (1.05 eq) was added in one portion, and the reaction mixture was allowed to stir to room temperature overnight. TLC (96:4, CH₂Cl₂/MeOH, v/v) revealed completion of reaction. The reaction mixture was diluted with CH₂Cl₂ and washed with 1N HCl, H₂O and saturated NaCl. The organic phase was dried over MgSO₄ (anhydrous), filtered and concentrated on the rotary evaporator. The residue was dried under high vacuum, and the crude product was purified by column chromatography on silica gel eluting with 9:1, CH₂Cl₂/acetone, v/v. NDH 4486: Mp=135-136° C.; R_(f)=0.54 (9:1, CH₂Cl₂/acetone); Yield=68%. Exact mass (ESI) calculated for C₂₄H₃₇N₂O₅ [M+H] 433.2697, found 433.2676.

The preparation of esters was carried out as described for amides with the exception of replacing HOBt with 0.2 eq of DMAP. TLC analysis was performed using 7:3, hexanes/EtOAC, v/v while chromatographic purification was carried out using 8:2, hexanes/EtOAC, v/v. 1. NDH 4638: The crude material was purified by column chromatography eluting with 7:3, hexanes/EtOAc. R_(f)=0.27 (7:3, hexanes/EtOAc); Yield=47%. Exact mass (ESI) calculated for C₂₇H₄₀NO₆ [M+H] 474.2850, found 474.2878. 2. NDH 4642: The crude material was purified by column chromatography eluting with 7:3, hexanes/EtOAc. R_(f)=0.32 (7:3, hexanes/EtOAc); Yield=61%. Exact mass (ESI) calculated for C₃₂H₄₈NO₆ [M+H] 542.3476, found 542.3494. 3. NDH 4639: The reaction solution was concentrated, and the residue taken up in EtOAc. The organic layer was extracted with a small amount of water, saturated NaHCO₃, water, and finally saturated NaCl. The crude product was purified twice by column chromatography-first eluting with 8:2, hexanes/EtOAc and then 94:6, CH₂Cl₂/Et₂O. R_(f)=0.36 (8:2, hexanes/EtOAc); Yield=24%. Exact mass (ESI) calculated for C₃₃H₅₂NO₆ [M+H] 558.3789, found 558.3809. 4. NDH 4647: The reaction solution was concentrated, and the residue taken up in EtOAc. The organic layer was extracted with a small amount of water, saturated NaHCO₃, water, and finally saturated NaCl. The crude material was purified by column chromatography eluting with 8:2, hexanes/EtOAc. R_(f)=0.70 (8:2, hexanes/EtOAc); Yield=43%. Exact mass (ESI) calculated for C₂₆H₄₀NO₄ [M+H] 430.2952, found 430.2968. 5. NDH 4648: The reaction solution was concentrated, and the residue taken up in EtOAc. The organic layer was extracted with a small amount of water, saturated NaHCO₃, water, and finally saturated NaCl. The crude material was purified by column chromatography eluting with 8:2, hexanes/EtOAc. R_(f)=0.69 (8:2, hexanes/EtOAc); Yield=62%. Exact mass (ESI) calculated for C₃₁H₄₇NO₄Na [M+Na] 520.3397, found 520.3429. 6. NDH 4640: The reaction solution was concentrated, and the residue taken up in EtOAc. The organic layer was extracted with a small amount of water, saturated NaHCO₃, water, and finally saturated NaCl. The crude material was purified by column chromatography eluting with 8:1:1(CH₂Cl₂/DIPE/hexanes). R_(f)=0.89 (8:1:1, CH₂Cl₂/DIPE/hexanes); Yield=57%. Exact mass (ESI) calculated for C₂₆H₃₈NO₅ [M+H] 444.2744, found 444.2750. 7. NDH 4641: The reaction solution was concentrated, and the residue taken up in EtOAc. The organic layer was extracted with a small amount of water, saturated NaHCO₃, water, and finally saturated NaCl. The crude material was purified by column chromatography eluting with 8:1:1(CH₂Cl₂/DIPE/hexanes). R_(f)=0.92 (8:1:1, CH₂Cl₂/DIPE/hexanes); Yield=64%. Exact mass (ESI) calculated for C₃₁H₄₆NO₅ [M+H] 512.3370, found 512.3391.

NMR Data 1) NDH 4486

¹HNMR (CDCl₃) δ6.83 (d, 1H, ³J=8.0 Hz, ArH), 6.76 (d, 1H, ⁴J=1.85 Hz, ArH), 6.72 (dd, 1H, ³J=8.1 Hz, ⁴J=1.85 Hz, ArH), 6.12 (bs, 1H, amide NH), 5.57 (s, 1H, ArOH), 5.30 (bs, 1H, O—CH₂CH═), 5.16 (d,1H, ³J=7.4 Hz, carbamate NH), 5.06 (m, 1H, (CH₃)₂—C═CH—), 4.60-4.50 (m, 2H, C(O)O—CH₂—), 4.41-4.29 (2xdd, 2H, ²J=14.5 Hz, ³J=5.5 Hz, Ar—CH₂—N), 3.93 (dd, 1H, ³J_(NH)=8.7 Hz, ³J_(CH)=6.1 Hz, CO—CH), 3.85 (s, 3H, Ar—O—CH₃), 2.22-2.10 (m, 1H, CH—(CH₃)₂), 2.10-2.08 (m,4H, ═C—CH₂—CH₂—C═), 1.69-1.63 (m, 6H, ═(CH₃)₂), 1.58 (s, 3H, CH₃—C═), 0.95 (d, 3H, ³J=6.8 Hz, CH(CH₃)—CH₃) and 0.90 (d, 3H, ³J=6.8 Hz, CH(CH₃)—CH₃). Exact mass (ESI) Calculated for C₂₄H₃₇N₂O₅ [M+1] 433.2697, found 433.2676.

2) NDH 4631

¹HNMR (methanol-d₄) δ7.16-7.10 (bd, 2H, 2xArH-3), 7.04-6.98 (m, 2H, 2xArH-4), 6.89-6.84 (bd, 2H, 2xAr-6), 3.11-2.99, (m, 8H, CH₂NCH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂NCH₂), 2.90-2.81 (m, 2H, 2xCH(CH₃)₂), 2.14 (bs, 6H, 2xArCH₃), 1.97-1.89 (m, 4H, 2xNCH₂CH₂CH₂N), 1.80-1.72 (m, 4H, NCH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂N), and 1.21 (bd, 12H, ³J=6.95 Hz, 2xHC(CH₃)₂). Note: The protons 2xOCNHCH₂ are masked beneath the methanol-d₄ CH₃ peak centered at δ3.30.

3) NDH 4638

¹HNMR (CDCl₃) δ6.97 (d, 1H, ³J=8.05 Hz, ArH-6), 6.75 (d, 1H, ⁴J=1.8 Hz, ArH-3), 6.71 (dd, 1H, ³J=8.05 Hz, ⁴J=1.8 Hz, ArH-5), 5.60 (d1H, ³J=9.05 Hz, NH), 4.90 (bd, 1H, ³J=9.55 Hz, bornyl H-2), 4.34 (dd, 1H, ³J=8.9 Hz, ⁴J=4.5 Hz, CO—CH), 3.77 (s, 3H, ArOCH₃), 2.85 (t, 2H, ³J=7.5 Hz, ArCH₂CH₂CO), 2.73 (t, 2H, ³J=7.45 Hz, ArCH₂CH₂CO), 2.41-2.36 (m, 1H, bornyl H-3exo), 2.27-2.20 (m, 1H, (CH₃)₂CH), 2.13 (s, 3H, COCH₃), 1.94-1.89 (m, 1H, bornyl H-6 endo), 1.78-1.72 (m, 1H, bornyl H-5 exo), 1.68 (t, 1H, J=4.40 Hz, bornyl H-4), 1.37-1.28 (m, 1H, bornyl H-6 exo), 1.25-1.16 (m, 1H, bornyl H-5 endo), 1.02 (d, 3H, ³J=6.85 Hz, CH₃(CH₃)CH—), 0.99-0.94 (m, 4H, bornyl H-3 endo and CH₃(CH₃)CH—), 0.89 (s, 3H, one bornyl C-7 CH₃), 0.87 (s, 3H, one bornyl C-7 CH₃) and 0.84 (s, 3H, bornyl C-1 CH₃).

4) NDH 4639

¹HNMR (CDCl₃) δ6.97 (d, 1H, ³J=8.05 Hz, ArH-6), 6.75 (d, 1H, ⁴J=1.8 Hz, ArH-3), 6.71 (dd, 1H, ³J=8.10 Hz, ⁴J=1.8 Hz, ArH-5), 5.60 (d, 1H, ³J=8.95 Hz, NH), 4.91 (bd, 1H, ³J=9.60 Hz, bornyl H-2), 4.34 (dd, 1H, ³J=8.95 Hz, ⁴J=4.55 Hz, CHCO), 2.84 (t, 2H, ³J=7.58 Hz, ArCH₂—), 2.69 (t, 2H, ³J=7.58 Hz, ArCH₂CH₂CO—), 2.41-2.34 (m, 3H, bornyl H-3 exo and ArCH₂CH₂COCH₂—), 2.27-2.20 (m, 1H, (CH₃)₂CH—), 1.94-1.89 (m, 1H, bornyl H-6 endo), 1.78-1.72 (m, 1H, bornyl H-5 exo), 1.68 (t, 1H, ³J=4.42 Hz, bornyl H-4), 1.58-1.50 (m, —COCH₂CH₂(CH₂)₄CH₃ masked beneath D₂O peak), 1.36-1.17 (m, 10H, —COCH₂CH₂(CH₂)₄CH₃, bornyl H-5 endo and bornyl H-6 exo), 1.02 (d, 3H, ³J=6.85 Hz, CH₃(CH₃)CH—), 1.00-0.93 (m, 4H, CH₃(CH₃)CH— and bornyl H-3 endo) 0.89 (s, 3H, one bornyl C-7 CH₃) and 0.86-0.83 (m, 9H, one bornyl C-7 CH₃, bornyl C-1 CH₃ and —CO(CH₂)₆CH₃).

5) NDH 4640

¹HNMR (CDCl₃) δ7.01 (d, 1H, ³J=7.75 Hz, ArH-6), 6.75 (d, 1H, ⁴J=1.6 Hz, ArH-3), 6.73 (d, 1H, ³J=8.05 Hz, ArH-5), 5.97-5.89 (m, 1H, ArCH₂CH═CH₂), 5.61 (d, 1H, ³J=8.95 Hz, NH), 5.10-5.04 (m, 2H, ArCH₂CH═CH₂), 4.92-4.89 (m, 1H, bornyl H-2), 4.35 (dd, 1H, J_(NH)=8.95 Hz, J_(CH)=4.55 Hz, —CH(NH)CO—), 3.80 (s, 3H, ArOCH₃), 3.34 (d, 2H, J=6.70 Hz, ArCH₂CH═CH₂), 2.42-2.34 (m, 1H, bornyl H-3 exo), 1.95-1.89 (m, 1H, bornyl H-6 endo), 1.78-1.71 (m, 1H, bornyl H-5 exo), 1.68 (t, 1H, J=4.45 Hz, bornyl H-4), 1.37-1.28 (m, 1H, bornyl H-6 exo), 1.25-1.16 (m, 1H, bornyl H-5 endo), 1.03 (d, 3H, ³J=6.90 Hz, CH₃(CH₃)CH—), 0.99-0.94 (m, 4H, bornyl H-3 endo and CH₃(CH₃)CH—), 0.89 (s 3H, one bornyl C-7 CH₃), 0.86 (s, 3H, one bornyl C-7 CH₃) and 0.84 (s, 3H, bornyl C-1 CH₃).

6) NDH 4641

¹HNMR (CDCl₃) δ7.01 (d, 1H, ³J=8.0 Hz, ArH-6), 6.74 (d, 1H, ⁴J=1.65 Hz, ArH-3), 6.72 (dd, 1H, ³J=8.0 Hz, ⁴J=1.8 Hz, ArH-5), 5.96-5.88 (m, 1H, ArCH₂CH═CH₂), 5.60 (d, 1H, ³J=9.1 Hz, NH), 5.35 (bt, 1H, J=7.15 Hz, —OCH₂CH═C—), 5.13-5.03 (m, 4H, ArCH₂CH═CH₂ and 2 vinyl H of farnesyl chain), 4.72-4.61 (m, 2H, —OCH₂CH═C—), 4.33 (dd, 1H, J_(NH)=9.15 Hz, J_(CH)=4.6 Hz, (CH₃)₂CHCHCO), 2.25-2.17 (m, 1H, (CH₃)₂CH—), 2.13-1.93 (m, 8H, 4 allylic —CH₂— of farnesyl chain), 1.70 (s, 3H, —OCH₂C═C(CH₃)—), 1.66 (s, 3H, center CH₃ of farnesyl chain), 1.58 (s, 6H, —C═C(CH₃)₂), 0.996 (d, 3H, ³J=6.85 Hz, CH₃(CH₃) CH—) and 0.917 (d, 3H, ³J=6.90 Hz, CH₃(CH₃)CH—).

7) NDH 4642

¹HNMR (CDCl₃) δ6.97 (d, 1H, ³J=8.0 Hz, ArH-6), 6.75 (d, 1H, ⁴J=1.85 Hz, ArH-3), 6.70 (dd, 1H, ³J=8.05 Hz, ⁴J=1.85 Hz, ArH-5), 5.60 (d, 1H, ³J=9.1 Hz, NH), 5.34 (m, 1H, —OCH₂CH═C—), 5.12-5.04 (m, 2H, 2 vinyl H of farnesyl chain), 4.72-4.60 (m, 2H, —OCH₂CH═C—), 4.33 (dd, 1H, J_(NH)=9.15 Hz, J_(CH)=4.6 Hz, (CH₃)₂CHCHCO), 3.79 (s, 3H, ArOCH₃), 2.84 (t, 2H, ³J=7.5 Hz, ArCH₂—), 2.73 (t, 2H, ³J=7.5 Hz, ArCH₂CH₂CO—), 2.26-2.17 (m, 1H, (CH₃)₂CH—), 2.12 (s, 3H, —COCH₃), 2.11-1.93 (m, 8H, 4 allylic —CH₂— of farnesyl chain), 1.70 (2, 3H, —OCH₂CH═C(CH₃)—), 1.66 (s, 3H, center CH₃ of farnesyl chain), 1.58 (s, 6H, —C═C(CH₃)₂), 0.99 (d, 3H, ³J=6.8 Hz, CH₃(CH₃) CH—) and 0.91 (d, 3H, ³J=6.90 Hz, CH₃(CH₃)CH—).

8) NDH 4647

¹HNMR (CDCl₃) δ7.10 (d, 1H, ³J=7.75 Hz, ArH-6), 6.97 (dd, 1H, ³J=7.70 Hz, ⁴J=1.55 Hz, ArH-5), 6.91 (s, 1H, ArH-3), 5.54 (d, 1H, ³J=8.95 Hz, NH), 4.97-4.87 (m, 1H, bornyl H-2), 4.37 (dd, 1H, ³J=9.05 Hz and 4.45 Hz, COCH), 2.84 (septet, 1H, ³J=6.96 Hz, CH(CH₃)₂), 2.44-2.35 (m, 1H, bornyl H-3 exo), 2.30-2.21 (m, 1H, (CH₃)₂CHCH(NH)CO), 2.16 (s, 3H, ArCH₃), 1.96-1.88 (m, 1H, bornyl H-6 endo), 1.80-1.72 (m, 1H, bornyl H-5 exo), 1.71-1.67 ((bt, 1H, ³J=4.40 Hz, bornyl H-4), 1.37-1.29 (m, 1H, bornyl H-6 exo), 1.22-1.18 (m, 7H, bornyl H-5endo and ArCH(CH₃)₂), 1.03 (d, 3H, ³J=6.85 Hz, CH₃(CH₃)CHCH(NH)CO), 1.01-0.93 (m, 1H, bornyl H-3 endo), 0.95 (d, 3H, ³J=6.95 Hz, CH₃(CH₃)CHCH(NH)CO), 0.89 (s, 3H, bornyl C-7 CH₃), 0.87 (s, 3H, bornyl C-7 CH₃) and 0.84 (s, 3H, bornyl C-1 CH₃).

9) NDH 4648

¹HNMR (CDCl₃) δ7.09 (d, 1H, ³J=7.75 Hz, ArH-2), 6.97 (dd, 1H, ³J=7.75 Hz, ⁴J=1.45 Hz, ArH-3), 6.90 (s, 1H, ArH-5), 5.54 (d, 1H, ³J=9.15 Hz, NH), 5.35 (bt, 1H, OCH₂—CH═), 5.12-5.04 (m, 2H, 2 vinyl protons), 4.75-4.61 (m, 2H, OCH₂—CH═), 4.38-4.32 (dd, 1H, ³J=9.18 Hz and ³J=4.58 Hz, CH—CO), 2.89-2.86 (septet, 1H, ³J=6.86 Hz, ArCH(CH₃)₂), 2.28-2.18 (m, 1H, (CH₃)₂CHCH(NH)CO), 2.15 (s, 3H, ArCH₃), 2.14-1.93 (m, 8H, 4 CH₂ units of fornesyl moiety), 1.71 (s, 3H, O—CH₂CH═C(CH₃)—), 1.66 (s, 3H, CH₂CH₂C═C(CH₃)CH₂—), 1.58 (s, 6H, C═C(CH₃)₂), 1.20 (d, 6H, ³J=6.95 Hz, ArCH(CH₃)₂), 1.00 (d, 3H, ³J=6.85 Hz, CH₃(CH₃)CHCH(NH)CO) and 0.92 (d, 3H, ³J=6.9 Hz, CH₃(CH₃)CHCH(NH)CO).

Examples of Aspect II

Synergism of anti-inflammatory responses by anti-inflammatory agents covalently coupled to amino acids (Aspect II) was demonstrated by preparation of the S-naproxen—valine conjugate, and screening it in the MEVM against CEES challenge. MEVM is a standard in vivo assay for assessment of anti-inflammatory potential in addressing chemically-induced injury to rodent skin. CEES is one of the inflammation inducers employed in the MEVM assay. A compound of the invention, Formula (IV-acid) (NDH 4476) provided four times better inflammation suppression (44%) than naproxen itself under the same conditions. The corresponding ethyl ester analog (IV-ethyl ester) (NDH 4535) was equipotent but the 3.3-dimethylbutyl ester (IV-3,3-dimethylbutyl-) (NDH 4596) was superior at 52% inflammation suppression. The latter molecule also was an inhibitor of AChE displaying anti-cholinergic activity with an IC₅₀ of 18.6 μM.

The phenylalanine conjugate of S-naproxen (esterified as the 3,3-dimethylbutyl ester) shown in Formula (V) (NDH 4572) displayed an impressive 83% suppression of CEES-induced inflammation while S-naproxen itself yielded a mere 11% suppression of CEES inflammation. The six-carbon ester not only adds lipophilicity and promotes solubility of the NSAID-amino acid pharmaceutical in ointment excipients, but through its action as a bioisostere of choline it provides anticholinergic activity. For a discussion of how anticholinergic activity can facilitate anti-inflammatory responses see S. C. Young et al, Investigation of anticholinergic and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory prodrugs which reduce chemically-induced skin inflammation, J. Appl. Tox., 2012, 32: 135-141. The choline bioisostere 3,3-dimethylbutyl alcohol provides cholinesterase inhibition in the final anti-inflammatory drug-amino acid-choline bioisostere construct. For the naproxen-phenylalanine platform, Formula (V), (also known as NDH 4572) this choline mimic generates an IC₅₀ value of 4.7 μM against AChE.

The phenylalanine conjugate of the NSAID diclofenac (esterified as the 3,3-dimethyl-butyl ester; Formula (VI)) (NDH 4578) displayed a complete (100%) suppression of induced inflammation in the mouse. In the same assay diclofenac itself displayed a mere 17% suppression of inflammation.

Despite the fact that it is an NSAID, topical ibuprofen by itself was found to be a dermal irritant, adding 11% additional inflammation to CEES-induced injury. Furthermore, vanillylamine is only a weak anti-inflammatory; however, the triple conjugate of ibuprofen, vanillylamine, and valine, Formula (VII) (NDH 4479), provided a 94% suppression of CEES-induced inflammation.

Aspect II: Design and Synthesis of the NSAID-Amino Acid Conjugates and NSAID-Amino Acid—Anticholinergic Conjugates

The NSAID-amino acid conjugates (as esters or as free carboxylic acids) were synthesized by the following general method. All NSAIDs employed herein bear a pendant carboxylic acid group. To illustrate how such molecules are linked to the amino acid carrier the designation NSAID-CO— is used to convey that the fundamental ring system of the NSAID is attached through its carboxyl moiety. The required amino acids (0.60 mmol) were first esterified with ethyl alcohol, n-butyl alcohol, or 3,3-dimethylbutyl alcohol in toluene with p-toluenesulfonic acid as a catalyst. The amino acid esters could be isolated, crystallized, and purified in 55-85% yields if so desired. Then the requisite NSAID (0.60 mmol), and HOBt (0.66 mmol) were added in CH₂Cl₂ (5 mL) under a nitrogen atmosphere. The reaction contents were stirred at room temperature for 15 min, until the solution became clear. EDC·HCl (1.1 equiv., 126 mg, 0.66 mmol) was then added and the reaction contents were stirred at room temperature overnight (16 hr). Distilled water was added and the organic layer was separated. The aqueous phase was then extracted with methylene chloride (25 mL) and the two organic layers were combined and washed with 1 M HCl (2×50 mL), saturated NaHCO₃ (50 mL), and brine. The organic layer was then dried over anhydrous MgSO₄, filtered, and concentrated to yield the final product, which was purified via column chromatography using a gradient separation with hexanes (100 to 50%) and ethyl acetate (0 to 50%) as the eluting solvent mixture.

Yields on the amide-forming step were 89-99% and after column chromatography were homogeneous by TLC. These NSAID-amino acid—ester conjugates were sufficiently pure for in vitro (AChE) screening or in vivo (MEVIVI) testing. Hydrolysis of these esters in 1:1 water:THF with 1 mmol of Na₂CO₃ could free the carboxylic acids (giving the simple NSAID-amino acid conjugate if so desired) in 40% yield. Products were identified by exact mass spectrometry with experimental values within +/− 0.02 amu of the theoretical mass. In this fashion, on the valine platform, (IV-ethyl ester, NDH 4535) (white solid, mp 135-139° C.) and (IV-3,3-dimethylbutyl ester, NDH 4596) (clear oil Rf=0.30 with 4:1 hexane:ethyl acetate) and (IV-free acid, NDH 4476) (white solid, 164-166° C.) were prepared. While this method is suitable for any NSAID-amino acid or NSAID-amino acid ester, the specific products prepared by this route were NDH 4651, NDH 4652, NDH 4653, and NDH 4654. Scheme I illustrates this pathway with any alcohol (R′—OH) and any carboxyl-bearing NSAID but the method has been specifically applied to these alcohols: ethanol, n-butanol, 3,3-dimethylbutyl alcohol, 2-(trimethylsilyl)ethyl alcohol, and to these NSAIDs: ibuprofen, naproxen, indomethacin, and diclofenac.

For the proline conjugates, two structurally-related products were observed via nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, even following extensive chromatographic purification. In all cases, the percentage of the second product ranged from 13 to 19%, depending on the NSAID. The final products were homogeneous by TLC. It was determined that the sterically hindered proline amide bond undergoes cis-trans isomerization (Scheme II) which can be detected via NMR (vide infra). Cis-trans isomerization of the proline peptide bond is well documented and plays an important role in protein folding.

Aspect II: Design and Syntheses of Amino Acid Conjugates Requiring Specialized Transformations

A. Preparation of Amino Acid Conjugates which Include a Ketone Body (3-hydroxybutyrate) Illustrated with NDH 4571 as an Example

The labile 3-hydroxy group requires protection before it can be linked to an amino acid platform. For this the TBDMS-protected 3-hydroxybutyric acid ((R)-3-[(tert-butyl)dimethylsilyloxy] butanoic acid) was first prepared according to the procedure of D. Seebach, et.al. (Helvetica Chimica Acta, 79(3), 670 (1996)) and used as the starting material. Seebach's protected acid compound was subsequently converted to the thiazolide of the silyl-protected butanoic acid, first structure shown in Scheme III. The protected acid (1.776 g, 8.133 mmol), mercaptothiazoline (970 mg 8.133 mmol), and N,N′-dicyclohexylcarbodiimide (DCC) (1.762 g, 1.05×8.133 mmol) were dissolved in 40 mL of CH₂Cl₂. The flask was immersed in an ice bath, and after sufficient chilling, a catalytic amount of 4-dimethylaminopyridine (DMAP) was added. The ice bath was removed stirring for 2 h, and the mixture was stirred at room temperature for an additional 2 h. The urea was filtered off, and the filtrate extracted with saturated NaHCO₃, 1N HCl and saturated NaCl. The organic layer was dried over MgSO₄, filtered and concentrated. A portion of the crude (850 mg) was purified by column chromatography on silica gel (70 g) eluting with hexanes/ethyl acetate. 8:2 to give a 78% yield of a bright yellow oil, R_(f)=0.49.

While Step 1 can employ any of the anti-inflammatory amino acids, the pathway is illustrated with L-valine. The thiazolide (331.9 mg, 1.038 mmol), L-valine (128 mg, 1.05×1.038 mmol) and diisopropylethylamine (268 mg, 362 μL, 2×1.038 mmol) were dissolved in a mixture of 5.2 mL each of water and THF. The reaction mixture was stirred vigorously overnight. The colorless mixture was diluted with CH₂Cl₂ and extracted with 1 N HCl. The organic layer was concentrated, and the residue was dissolved in ether. The ether solution was extracted with saturated NaHCO₃. The bicarbonate layer was extracted twice with ether and then carefully acidified to pH=1 using 4N HCl. The resulting aqueous mixture was extracted with CH₂Cl₂. The organic layer was dried over MgSO₄, filtered, and concentrated. This product of Step 1 was used in Step 2 without further purification.

In Step 2, the N-substituted valine derivative (229.6 mg, 0.723 mmol), HOBt (103 mg, 1.05×0.723 mmol), 4-hydroxy-3-methoxybenzylamine hydrochloride, also known as vanillylamine hydrochloride, (144 mg, 1.05×0.723 mmol) and NEt₃ (77 mg, 106 μL, 1.05×0.723 mmol) were dissolved in CH₂Cl₂ (7 mL). The solution was stirred and chilled in an ice bath. To the cold mixture was added EDC (153 mg, 1.1×0.723 mmol). The mixture was allowed to stir to room temperature overnight. The mixture was diluted with CH₂Cl₂ and extracted with water, 1N HCl, saturated NaHCO₃, and saturated NaCl. The organic layer was dried over Mg SO₄, filtered and concentrated. The crude product was purified by column chromatography on silica gel (50 g) eluting with CH₂Cl₂/MeOH, 94:6 (v/v), R_(f)=0.40, to give a 70% yield. Although Scheme III, Step 2 shows the incorporation of vanillylamine, any nucleophilic anti-inflammatory could be used (e.g., a phenolic-protected vanillyl alcohol).

In Step 3, the silyl-protected conjugate (229 mg, 0.506 mmol) was desilylated by dissolving in 5 mL of MeOH, adding NH₄F (94 mg, 5×0.506 mmol) and heating at 60° C. for 7 days. The solution was cooled to room temperature and concentrated under reduced pressure. The crude product was purified by column Chromatography on silica gel (40 g) eluting with CH₂Cl₂/MeOH, 98:2 (v/v) and increasing to 92:8 to give a yield of 84%, (R_(f)=0.23 (CH₂Cl₂/MeOH, 94:6 (v/v), mp=164-174° C. with rapid heating). Spectral evidence confirmed the structure of NDH 4571. ¹H NMR (acetone d₆) δ: 7.70-7.64 (m, 1H, —NH— of valine), 7.44 (d, 1H, ³J=4.5 Hz, CH₃CH(OH)—), 6.90 (m, 1H, Ar), 6.74-6.69 (m, 2H, Ar), 4.31-4.25 (m, 3H, —NCH(CH₃)₂— and Ar—CH₂—), 4.09-4.03 (m, 1H, CH₃CH(OH)—), 3.80 (s, 3H, Ar—OCH₃), 2.42-2.27 (m, 2H, —C(H(OH)CH₂CO—), 2.20-2.07 (m, 1H, —CH(CH₃)₂), 1.14-1.11 (m, 3H, —CH(CH₃)₂), 0.93 (t, 3H, ³J=6.80 Hz, CH(CH₃)₂) and 0.91-0.88 (2 sets of doublets, 3H, ³J=6.85 Hz each, CH₃CH(OH)—).

B. Preparation of NSAID-Amino Acid Conjugates with Free Amino Acid Carboxyls (Illustrated with NDH 4476 or Compound IV-Acid)

While the amino acid conjugates of NSAIDs (those with a free amino acid carboxyl) can be prepared by hydrolysis of the ester products of Scheme I, a far better route involves the thiazolide pathway. Thus, the synthesis of IV-acid was carried out as described in step 1 for the synthesis of NDH 4571 using the thiazolide of (S)-naproxen being condensed with L-valine to render a 68% yield of a white solid, NDH 4476 or IV-acid. Mp=164-166° C.; R_(f)=0.56 (rocket), CH₂Cl₂/MeOH, 9:1 (v/v); Exact mass (ESI) Calculated for C₁₉H₂₄NO₄ [M+H] 330.1700, found 330.1680. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃) δ: 7.72-7.76 (m, 3H, Ar), 7.36 (d, 1H, ³J=8.40 Hz), 7.14 (dd, 1H, ³J=8.95 Hz, ⁴J=2.3 Hz), 7.10 (s, 1H), 5.82 (d, 1H, ³J=8.35 Hz), 4.45-4.42 (m, 1H), 3.90 (s, 3H), 3.77 (q, 1H, ³J=7.15 Hz), 2.16-2.09 (m, 1H), 1.60 (d, 3H, ³J=7.25 Hz), 0.87 (d, 3H, ³J=6.85 Hz) and 0.74 (d, 3H, ³J=6.85 Hz).

Although illustrated herein with S-naproxen and L-valine, this thiazolide route can be used for any carboxyl-terminated NSAID and any amino acid co-reactant.

C. Preparation of a Formula II Example Wherein and NSAID and a Vanilloid are Linked to an Amino Acid Through Nitrogen Atoms, Illustrated with NDH 4479 (Compound VII)

Compound VII or NDH 4479 is one of the most potent anti-inflammatories observed in the MEVM, with 110% suppression of phorbol-induced and 94% suppression of CEES-induced inflammation. The synthesis of VII was carried out as described in steps 1 and 2 for the synthesis of NDH 4571 but using the thiazolide of ibuprofen to give a 72% yield of a solid. Mp=56-66° C. with rapid heating; purification by column chromatography with silica gel and CH₂Cl₂/acetone, 92:8 (v/v); R_(f)=0.23, CH₂Cl₂/acetone, 92:8 (v/v); Exact mass (ESI) Calculated for C₂₆H₃₇N₂O₄ [M+H] 441.2748, found 441.2742. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃) δ: 7.17-7.03 (m, 4H, Ar of Ibuprofen), 6.85-6.64 (m, 3H, Ar of vanillamine), 6.25-6.06 (m, 1H, NH of valine), 5.86-5.76 (m, 1H, NH of vanillamine), 5.57 (br s, 1H, ArOH), 4.40-4.08 (m, 3H, —NCHCO— and Ar—CH₂—), 3.84-3.82 (m, 3H, ArOCH₃), 3.59-3.49 (m, 1H, ArCH(CH₃)CO—), 2.45-2.40 (m, 2H, (CH₃)₂CHCH₂—), 2.12-1.95 (m, 1H, (CH₃)₂CHCH₂—), 1.85-1.76 (m, 1H, (CH₃)₂CHCH(NH)CO—), 1.49-1.43 (m, 3H, ArCH(CH₃)CO—) and 0.88=0.63 (m, 12H, (CH₃)₂CHCH₂— and (CH₃)₂CHCH(NH)CO—).

D. Alternative Preparation of NDH 4535

While the synthesis of NDH 4535 could be achieved as described in Scheme I with ethanol as the esterifying alcohol, a much higher yield can be achieved by the thiazolide route. The synthesis of NDH 4535 is best carried out as described in step 1 for the synthesis of NDH 4571 using the thiazolide of (S)-naproxen, L-valine ethyl ester hydrochloride and THF only as solvent. The product was purified by column chromatography on silica gel and eluting with hexanes/ethyl acetate, 7:3 (v/v) to yield 84% of a crystalline product: mp=100-102° C., R_(f)=0.43 (hexanes/ethyl acetate 7:3 (v/v)). Exact mass (ESI) Calculated for C₂₁H₂₈NO₄ [M+H] 358.2013, found 358.2021. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃) δ: 7.73-7.68 (m, 3H, Ar), 7.38 (dd, 1H, ³J=8.5 Hz, ⁴J=1.8 Hz, Ar), 7.13 (dd, 1H, ³J=8.9 Hz, ⁴J=2.55 Hz, Ar), 7.10 (d, 1H, ⁴J=2.45 Hz, Ar), 4.50-4.46 (m, 1H, N—CHCO), 4.14-4.01 (m, 2H, OCH₂CH₃), 2.10-2.03 (m, 1H, —CH(CH₃)₂), 1.60 (d, 3H, ³J=7.2 Hz, —CH(CH₃)CO—), 1.15 (t, 3H, ³J=7.15 Hz, OCH₂CH₃), 0.85 (d, 3H, ³J=6.85 Hz, —CH(CH₃)₂) and 0.74 (d, 3H, ³J=6.85 Hz, —CH(CH₃)₂).

E. Preparation of a Mixed Vanilloid-Amino Acid Platform Illustrated with NDH 4483

Since both vanillylamine and vanillyl alcohol possess anti-inflammatory activities and in similar fashion to the amino acid valine, the triple combination consistently displays MEVM numbers >65%. The synthesis of NDH 4483 was carried out as described in steps 1 and 2 for the synthesis of NDH 4571 but using the thiazolide carbamate of 4-acetoxy-3-methoxyvanillyl alcohol. The product was purified by column chromatography on silica gel and eluting with CH₂Cl₂/MeOH, 94:6 (v/v) to give a 61% yield of a white solid: R_(f)=0.53 (CH₂Cl₂/MeOH, 92:8 (v/v). Exact mass (ESI) Calculated for C₂₄H₃₁N₂O₄ [M+H] 475.2075, found 475.2058. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃) δ: 6.97 (d, 1H, ³J=8.0 Hz, H-5 of vanillyl alcohol), 6.92 (s, 1H, H-2 of vanillyl alcohol), 6.88 (d, 1H, ³J=8.2 Hz, H-6 of vanillyl alcohol), 6.82 (d, 1H, ³J=8.0 Hz, H-5 of vanillylamine), 6.75 (s, 1H, H-2 of vanillylamine), 6.72 (d, 1H, ³J=7.9 Hz, H-6 of vanillylamine), 5.61 (s, 1H, ArOH), 5.34 (d, 1H, ³J=8.5 Hz, NH of valine), 5.05-4.99 (m, 2H, ArCH₂O—), 4.41-4.27 (m, 2H, ArCH₂NH—), 3.96-3.91 (m, 1H, —NHCHCO—), 3.82 (s, 3H, ArOCH₃), 3.80 (s, 3H, ArOCH₃), 2.29 (s, 3H, ArOCOCH₃), 2.13 (m, 1H, —CH(CH₃)₂), 0.97 (d, 3H, ³J=6.8 Hz, —CH(CH₃)CH₃) and 0.91 (d, 3H, ³J=6.8 Hz, —CH(CH₃)CH₃).

The amino acid—3,3-dimethylbutyl esters lacking the NSAID moiety were all inactive in inhibition of AChE as were the NSAID-amino acid ethyl and n-butyl esters. These displayed IC₅₀ values greater than 100 μM and precise IC₅₀ values could not be determined due to solubility limitations of the compound being tested. Some of these simple conjugates did, however, possessed modest (usually 5-44%) anti-inflammatory activity in the mouse ear vesicant model (e.g., IV-acid and IV-ethyl ester at 40-44% and the n-butyl esters designated NDH 4651-4654 at <25%). These data indicate that the choline mimics alone (or AA linked choline mimics) do not have a high affinity for AChE. Low micromolar anticholinesterase IC₅₀ activities are obtained only when the choline mimics are covalently linked to an aromatic and lipophilic NSAID such as diclofenac. While the relationship between the IC₅₀ values for inhibition of AChE and the measured anti-inflammatory effects in the MEVIVI is not linear, it can be observed (Table I) that compounds with the lowest IC₅₀'s (e.g., below 3.3 micromolar) displayed superior inflammation suppression percentages for at least one of the inflammation-inducers. (See NDH 4537, 4577, 4578, and 4591)

TABLE I NSAID-Amino Acid—3,3-dimethylbutyl Esters (other structural examples are described elsewhere herein) AChE % % NDH # NSAID Amino Acid IC₅₀ (μM) CEES^(a) TPA^(a) 4618 Naproxen Proline >100*  34 Irritant 4619 Ibuprofen Proline NT 24 35  4617 Indomethacin Proline >25* 25  68*** 4628 Diclofenac Proline 15.4 +/− 0.1 10  76*** 4614 Ibuprofen Glycine 27.9 +/− 2.7 Irritant 18  4613 Naproxen Glycine NT  66** 54** 4615 Indomethacin Glycine 6.63 +/− 0.4 21 55** 4627 Diclofenac Glycine >50* Irritant 45** 4576 Ibuprofen Phenylalanine 4.34 +/− 0.2 Irritant Irritant 4572 Naproxen Phenylalanine 4.77 +/− 0.2  83** 42** 4577 Indomethacin Phenylalanine 2.55 +/− 0.7  62** 79** 4578 Diclofenac Phenylalanine 1.31 +/− 0.1  120** 90** 4595 Ibuprofen Valine 8.91 +/− 0.4 47 Irritant 4596 Naproxen Valine 18.6 +/− 3.0 51 22  4537 Indomethacin Valine 3.29 +/− 0.3 59 107*** 4591 Diclofenac Valine 1.85 +/− 0.1  85** 31  *A precise IC₅₀ could not be determined due to limits in inhibitor solubility NT means not tested ^(a)Values differ from a positive control based on one-way ANOVA, **P < 0.05, ***P < 0.005

Representative Physical Data for Anti-inflammatories of Aspect II Containing Amino Acid Linkers

Stability. If vanillyl amine (i.e., 3-methoxy-4-hydroxybenzyl-NH—) is attached to any of these anti-inflammatory amino acid platforms it constitutes a shelf-stable, slowly metabolized moiety. However, if vanillyl alcohol (i.e., 3-methoxy-4-hydroxybenzyl-O—) is attached, the resulting candidate pharmaceuticals are unstable unless the free-phenolic hydroxyl is protected by acylation. Acetate is a preferred protecting group and the derived products are suitable therapeutic candidates.

(S)-3,3-Dimethylbutylpyrrolidine-2-carboxylate:

Light yellow liquid, 85% yield; R_(f) 0.12 (Hexanes:ethyl acetate 1:1); ¹H NMR (500 MHz, CDCl₃)=6 0.92 (s, 9H), 1.53-1.57 (t, 2H, J=7.15 Hz), 1.70-1.76 (m, 2H), 1.79-1.84 (m, 1H), 270,2.05-2.11 (m, 1H), 2.85-2.90 (m, 1H), 3.03-3.08 (m, 1H), 3.69-3.72 (dd, 1H, J=5.70, 8.60 Hz), 4.14-4.17 (dt, 2H, J=1.70,3.70 Hz); ¹³C NMR (125 MHz, CDCl₃): 025.5,29.6,29.7,30.3, 41.8,47.1,59.9,62.7, 175.6; HRMS (m/z): calc. for C₁₁H₂₁NO₂ 200.1645; meas. 200.1638. (S)-3,3-Dimethylbutyl-1-(2-(4-isobutylphenyl)propanoyl)pyrrolidine-2-carboxylate:

Clear liquid, 93% yield; R_(f) 0.74 (Hexanes:ethyl acetate 1:1); according to ¹H NMR, 19.2% of the cis isomer of the proline peptide bond is present: ¹H NMR trans isomer (500 MHz, CDCl₃): 0 0.85-0.89 (m, 6H), 0.92 (s, 9H), 1.38-1.42 (q, 3H, J=10.9 Hz), 1.54-1.57 (t, 2H, J=7.55 Hz), 1.69-1.90 (m, 4H), 1.93-2.02 (m, 1H), 2.38-2.42 (dd, 2H, J=2.55, 7.18 Hz), 3.17-3.50 (m, 2H), 3.64-3.76 (m, 1H), 4.10-4.20 (m, 2H), 4.39-4.49 (m, 1H), 7.02-7.08 (m, 2H), 7.13-7.19 (m, 2H); cis isomer: 00.85-0.89 (m, 6H), 0.87 (s, 9H), 1.38-1.42 (q, 3H, J=10.9 Hz), 1.47-1.50 (t, 2H, J=7.50 Hz), 1.69-1.90 (m, 4H), 2.05-2.15 (m, 1H), 2.38-2.42 (dd, 2H, J=2.55, 7.18 Hz), 3.173.50 (m, 2H), 3.64-3.76 (m, 1H), 4.10-4.15 (m, 1H), 4.21-4.25 (m, 1H), 4.39-4.53 (m, 1H), 7.027.08 (m, 2H), 7.13-7.19 (m, 2H); ¹³C NMR trans isomer (125 MHz, CDCl₃): 020.3,22.4,22.5, 24.9,29.6,29.8,30.1,41.6,44.5,45.1,46.8,59.2,62.7, 127.3, 129.4, 138.4, 140.0, 172.3, 172.6; cis isomer: 0 20.4, 22.3, 22.5, 24.8, 29.0, 30.2, 31.2, 41.7, 44.6, 45.0, 46.6, 58.9, 62.8, 127.0, 127.3, 129.5. 129.6, 172.8, 172.9; Calc. for C₂₄H₃₇NO₃·0.25H₂O (392.06): C, 73.53; H, 9.64; N, 3.57. Found: C, 73.86; H, 9.41; N, 3.47. (S)-3,3-Dimethylbutyl-1-((S)-2-(6-methoxynaphthalen-2-yl)propanoyl)pyrrolidine-2-carboxylate:

White solid, 73% yield; MP 111.5-112.5° C.; R_(f) 0.62 (Hexanes: ethyl acetate 1:1); according to ¹H NMR, 13.4% of the cis isomer of the proline peptide bond is present: ¹H NMR, trans isomer (500 MHz, DMF): 00.99 (s, 9H), 1.52-1.57 (m, 5H), 1.92-1.97 (m, 2H), 2.04-2.07 (m, 1H), 2.332.36 (m, 1H), 3.35-3.39 (m, 1H), 3.87-3.92 (m, 1H), 4.07 (s, 3H), 4.17-4.26 (m, 3H), 4.55-4.57 (dd, 1H, J=4.20,8.60 Hz), 7.31-7.34 (dd, 1H, J=2.50,9.00 Hz), 7.50 (d, 1H, J=2.50 Hz), 7.61-7.64 (dd, 1H, J=1.75, 8.45 Hz), 7.94-7.98 (t, 3H, J=8.65 Hz); cis isomer: 0 1.12 (s, 9H), 1.52-1.57 (m, 5H), 1.76-1.80 (t, 2H, J=7.25 Hz), 1.92-1.97 (m, 2H), 1.91-1.97 (m, 1H), 2.19-2.23 (m, 1H), 3.55-3.60 (m, 1H), 3.87-3.92 (m, 1H), 4.07 (5, 3H), 4.43-4.45 (m, 2H), 7.31-7.34 (dd, 1H, J=2.50, 9.00 Hz), 7.50 (d, 1H, J=2.50 Hz), 7.61-7.64 (dd, 1H, J=1.75, 8.45 Hz), 7.91 (bs, 1H), 7.94-7.98 (1, 2H, J=8.65 Hz); ¹³C NMR, trans isomer (125 MHz, DMF): 020.1, 22.4,31.1,24.9,41.7,44.0,46.9,55.2,59.4,62.1,63.2, 106.1, 118.9, 126.3, 126.9, 127.4, 129.3, 129.4, 133.9, 137.3, 157.9, 172.0, 172.4; cis isomer: 0 20.1, 22.4, 31.1, 41.8, 44.3, 46.6, 55.2, 59.2, 62.1, 63.2, 106.0, 119.1, 125.9, 126.3, 126.9, 127.6, 129.3, 129.4, 134.0, 137.1, 157.9, 172.5, 172.8; Calc. for C₂₅H₃₃NO₄ (411.53): C, 72.96; H, 8.08; N, 3.40. Found: C, 73.22; H, 7.98; N, 3.47. (S)-3,3-Dimethylbutyl-1-(2-(1-(4-Chlorobenzoyl)-5-methoxy-2-methyl-1H-indol-3-yl)acetyl) pyrrolidine-2-carboxylate:

Yellow oil, 96% yield; R_(f) 0.47 (Hexanes:ethyl acetate 1:1); according to ¹H NMR, 18.5% of the cis isomer of the proline peptide bond is present: ¹H NMR, trans isomer (500 MHz, CDCl₃): δ0.88 (5, 9H), 1.41-1.45 (1, 2H, J=7.55 Hz), 1.93-2.03 (m, 2H), 2.05-2.09 (m, 1H), 2.18-2.20 (m, 1H), 2.36 (5, 3H), 3.62-3.71 (m, 2H), 3.70 (5, 2H), 3.77 (5, 3H), 4.03-4.07 (m, 2H), 4.30-4.33 (dd, 1H, J=4.55,8.60 Hz), 6.63-6.66 (dd, 1H, J=2.50,9.00 Hz), 6.94-6.97 (m, 1H), 6.99 (d, 1H, J=2.50 Hz), 7.52 (d, 2H, J=8.45 Hz), 7.61-7.64 (m, 2H); cis isomer: δ0.89 (5, 9H), 1.47-1.51 (1, 2H, J=7.40 Hz), 1.84-1.90 (m, 1H), 1.93-2.03 (m, 2H), 2.21 (5, 3H), 3.45-3.49 (m, 3H). 3.70 (5, 2H), 3.77 (s, 3H), 4.08-4.13 (m, 2H), 4.58-4.61 (dd, 1H, J=1.95, 8.60 Hz), 6.63-6.66 (dd, 1H, J=2.50,9.00 Hz), 6.94-6.97 (m, 1H), 6.99 (d, 1H, J=2.50 Hz), 7.52 (d, 2H, J=8.45 Hz), 7.61-7.64 (m, 2H); ¹³C NMR, trans isomer (500 MHz, CDCl₃): 0 13.6, 25.0, 29.5, 29.6, 29.7, 31.2, 41.6, 47.3, 55.7, 59.3, 62.9, 101.7, 111.6, 112.9, 114.8, 129.1, 130.8, 130.9, 131.2, 134.0,135.6, 139.2, 156.0, 168.3, 168.8, 172.3; cis isomer: δ13.5, 22.3, 25.0, 29.1, 29.7, 31.7, 41.7, 46.8, 53.5, 59.6, 63.5, 101.6, 111.7, 112.9, 114.8, 129.1, 130.8, 130.9, 131.2, 134.0, 135.6, 139.2, 156.1, 168.3, 168.9, 172.3; Calc. for C₃₀H₃₅ClN₂O₅·0.5CH₂Cl₂ (581.53): C, 63.00; H, 6.24; N, 4.82. Found: C, 63.34; H, 5.69; N, 4.81. (S)-3,3-Dimethylbutyl-1-(2-(2-(2, 6-dichlorophenylamino)phenyl)acetyl)pyrrolidine-2-carboxylate:

Clear oil, 82% yield; R_(f) 0.31 (Hexanes:ethyl acetate, 4:1); according to ¹H NMR, 22.1% of the cis isomer of the proline peptide bond is present: ¹H NMR, trans isomer (500 MHz, CDCl₃): δ0.86 (s, 9H), 1.41-1.45 (1, 2H, J=15.0 Hz), 1.99-2.01 (m, 2H), 2.05-2.11 (m, 1H), 2.11-2.17 (m, 1H), 3.62-3.71 (m, 2H), 3.72-3.87 (m, 3H), 4.06-4.14 (m, 2H), 4.48-4.51 (dd, 1H, J=3.50, 8.60 Hz), 6.48 (d, 1H, J=7.75 Hz), 6.84-6.89 (1, 1H, J=7.25 Hz), 6.91-6.94 (1, 1H, J=8.00 Hz), 7.06 (d, 1H, J=7.40 Hz), 7.15 (d, 1H, J=7.50 Hz), 7.29 (d, 2H, J=8.00 Hz); ¹H NMR, cis isomer (500 MHz, CDCl₃): δ0.90 (s, 9H), 1.52-1.56 (1, 2H, J=7.45 Hz), 1.88-1.94 (m, 2H), 2.13-2.19 (m, 1H), 2.23-2.32 (m, 1H), 3.54-3.62 (m, 2H), 3.72-3.87 (m, 3H), 4.18-4.28 (m, 2H), 4.63-4.66 (dd, 1H, J=2.55, 8-0.53 Hz), 6.49-6.51 (m, 1H), 6.85-6.88 (m, 1H), 6.91-6.95 (1, 1H, J=8.00 Hz), 7.04-7.08 (m, 2H), 7.30 (d, 2H, J=8.00 Hz); ¹³C NMR, trans isomer (125 MHz, CDCl₃): δ24.9, 29.2, 29.6, 29.7, 39.2, 41.5, 47.6, 60.1, 62.9, 117.8, 121.2, 123.8, 124.5, 127.6, 128.8, 130.0, 130.7, 138.1, 143.7, 170.2, 172.2; ¹³C NMR, cis isomer (125 MHz, CDCl₃): δ22.6, 29.6, 29.7, 31.6, 39.1, 41.7, 46.9, 60.1, 63.7, 117.8, 121.2, 123.8, 124.7, 127.7, 128.8, 129.9, 130.6, 138.1, 143.7, 170.8, 172.3. 3,3-Dimethylbutyl 2-aminoacetate:

Light yellow liquid, 58% yield; R_(f) 0.55 (Methylene chloride:methanol, 9:1 with 3 drops NH₄OH); ¹H NMR (500 MHz, CDCl₃): δ0.91 (s, 9H), 1.42-1.47 (bs, 2H), 1.52-1.56 (1, 2H, J=7.50 Hz), 3.38 (s, 2H), 4.13-4.18 (1, 2H, J=7.45 Hz); ¹³C NMR (125 MHz, CDCl₃): δ29.7, 29.8, 41.8, 44.1,62.7, 174.3; HRMS (m/z): calc. for C₈H₁₇NO₂ [M+1]: 160.1332; meas. 160.1321. 3,3-Dimethylbutyl 2-(2-(4-isobutylphenyl)propanamido)acetate:

Clear liquid, 91% yield; R_(f) 0.37 (Hexanes:ethyl acetate 4:1); ¹H NMR (500 MHz, CDCl₃): δ0.88 (d, 6H, J=6.60 Hz), 0.89 (s, 9H), 1.51 (d, 3H, J=7.15 Hz), 1.49-1.54 (1, 2H, J=5.80 Hz), 1.801.86 (m, 1H), 2.43 (d, 2H, J=7.20 Hz), 3.55-3.60 (q, 1H, J=7.15 Hz), 3.87-4.00 (dq, 2H, J=5.00, 18.5 Hz), 4.12-4.16 (1, 2H, J=7.50 Hz), 5.83 (bs, 1H), 7.10 (d, 2H, J=8.00 Hz), 7.19 (d, 2H, J=8.00 Hz); ¹³C NMR (125 MHz, CDCl₃): 8 18.4,22.4,29.5,29.7,30.2,41.6,44.9,45.0, 46.6, 63.2, 127.4, 129.7, 138.1, 140.9, 170.0, 174.6; Calc. for C₂₁H₃₃NO₃·0.25H₂O (351.99): C, 71.66; H, 9.59; N, 3.98. Found: C, 71.84; H, 9.35; N, 4.02. (S)-3,3-Dimethylbutyl 2-(2-(6-methoxynaphthalen-2-yl)propanamido)acetate:

Clear oil, 99% yield; R_(f) 0.20 (Hexanes:ethyl acetate 4:1); ¹H NMR (500 MHz, CDCl₃): δ0.87 (s, 9H), 1.45-1.49 (1, 2H, J=7.50 Hz), 1.59 (d, 3H, J=7.20 Hz), 3.71-3.77 (q, 1H, J=7.15 Hz), 3.87-4.00 (dq, 2H, J=5.40, 18.4 Hz), 3.90 (s, 3H), 4.09-4.14 (1, 2H, J=7.40 Hz), 5.85 (bs, 1H), 7.10 (d, 1H, J=2.45 Hz), 7.12-7.15 (dd, 1H, J=2.55,8.88 Hz), 7.36-7.39 (dd, 1H, J=1.70, 8.43 Hz), 7.67 (s, 1H), 7.68-7.73 (1, 2H, J=8.55 Hz); ¹³C NMR (125 MHz, CDCl₃): δ18.4,29.5, 29.7,41.5,41.6,46.8, 55.3, 63.2, 105.7, 119.2, 126.2, 126.3, 127.6, 129.0, 129.3, 133.8, 136.0, 157.8, 169.9, 174.5; Calc. for C₂₂H₂₉NO₄ (371.47): C, 71.13; H, 7.87; N, 3.77. Found: C, 70.97; H, 7.69; N, 3.80. 3,3-Dimethylbutyl 2-(2-(1-(4-chlorobenzoyl}-5-methoxy-2-methyl-1H-indol-3-yl)acetamido)acetate:

Yellow solid, 89% yield; MP 118.5-120° C.; R_(f) 0.11 (Hexanes:ethyl acetate 4:1); ¹H NMR (500 MHz, CDCl₃): δ0.89 (s, 9H), 1.48-1.51 (1, 2H, J=7.55 Hz), 2.36 (s, 3H), 3.67 (s, 2H), 3.82 (s, 3H), 3.95 (d, 2H, J=5.40 Hz), 4.11-4.15 (1, 2H, J=7.50 Hz), 6.07-6.09 (1, 1H, J=5.00 Hz), 6.68-6.71 (dd, 1H, J=2.55, 8.95 Hz), 6.91 (s, 1H), 6.90-6.94 (d, 1H, J=1-0.2 Hz), 7.45-7.48 (m, 2H), 7.64-7.67 (m, 2H); ¹³C NMR (125 MHz, CDCl₃): δ13.4,29.5,29.7,32.0,41.5,41.6,55.8, 63.3, 100.8, 112.5, 112.5, 115.1, 129.2, 130.2, 131.0, 131.3, 133.6, 136.4, 139.5, 156.3, 168.3, 169.7, 170.2; Calc. for C₂₇H₃₁CIN₂O₅ (499.00): C, 64.99; H, 6.26; N, 5.61. Found: C, 64.63; H, 5.94; N, 5.50. 3,3-Dimethylbutyl 2-(2-(2-(2, 6-dichlorophenylamino)phenyl)acetamido)acetate:

White solid, 70% yield; mp 118-119° C.; R_(f) 0.36 (Hexanes:ethyl acetate 4:1); ¹H NMR (500 MHz, CDCl₃): δ0.89 (s, 9H), 1.49-1.53 (1, 2H, J=7.50 Hz), 3.72 (s, 2H), 4.01 (d, 2H, J=5.05 Hz), 4.15-4.18 (1, 2H, J=7.45 Hz), 6.42-6.48 (bs, 1H), 6.49 (d, 1H, J=8.05 Hz), 6.88-6.92 (1, 1H, J=7.40 Hz), 6.93-6.97 (1, 1H, J=8.15 Hz), 7.07-7.11 (1, 1H, J=7.85 Hz), 7.17 (d, 1H, J=7.40 Hz), 7.31 (d, 3H, J=8.10 Hz); ¹³C NMR (125 MHz, CDCl₃): δ29.1,29.2,40.2,41.1,41.3, 62.9, 117.2, 121.2, 123.7, 124.0, 127.6, 128.4, 129.5, 130.2, 137.2, 142.5, 169.4, 171.3; Calc. for C₂₂H₂₆ClN₂O₃ (437.36): C, 60.42; H, 5.99; N, 6.41. Found: C, 60.36; H, 6.09; N, 6.26. (S)-3,3-Dimethylbutyl-2-amino-3-phenylpropanoate:

Light yellow liquid, 36% yield; R_(f) 0.43 (Methylene chloride:hexanes:ethanol, 90:8:2); ¹H NMR (500 MHz, CDCl₃): δ0.91 (s, 9H), 1.42-1.45 (bs, 2H), 1.49-1.52 (1, 2H, J=7.70 Hz), 2.80-3.08 (dd, 1H, J=7.95, 128 Hz), 2.83-3.06 (dd, 1H, J=7.95, 102 Hz), 3.65-3.70 (dd, 1H, J=5.30, 7.93 Hz), 4.11-4.16 (m, 2H), 7.15-7.19 (d, 2H, J=7.15 Hz), 7.21-7.24 (m, 1H), 7.26-7.30 (m, 2H); ¹³C NMR (125 MHz, CDCl₃): δ29.6, 29.7, 41.2, 41.7, 56.0, 62.7, 126.8, 128.6, 129.3, 137.4, 175.1; HRMS (m/z): calc. for C₁₅H₂₃NO₂ 250.1802; meas. 250.1791. (S)-3,3-Dimethylbutyl 2-(2-(4-isobutylphenyl)propanamido)-3-phenylpropanoate:

Clear oil, 73% yield; R_(f) 0.59 (Hexanes:ethyl acetate 4:1); ¹H N.MR (500 MHz, CDCl₃): δ0.82-1.01 (m, 15H), 1.34-1.53 (m, 5H), 1.78-1.90 (m, 1H), 2.42-2.50 (dd, 2H, J=7.20, 10.9 Hz), 2.94-2.97 (1, 1H, J=3.80 Hz), 2.91-3.07 (m, 1H), 3.44-3.53 (m, 1R), 4.01-4.16 (m, 2H), 4.734.84 (m, 1R), 5.71-5.74 (m, 1R), 6.74 (d, 1H, J=7.20 Hz), 6.90-6.93 (m, 1R), 7.05-7.16 (m, 5R), 7.15-7.20 (m, 2R); ¹³C NMR (125 MHz, CDCl₃): δ18.19, 22.42, 29.52, 29.53, 29.65, 29.69, 30.20, 30.24, 37.72, 37.76, 41.55, 41.60, 45.06, 45.08, 46.62, 46.72, 52.92, 53.15, 63.16, 63.20, 126.89, 126.96, 127.40, 127.41, 128.37, 128.45, 129.24, 129.29, 129.60, 129.62, 135.63, 135.85, 137.67, 138.27, 140.74, 171.40, 171.49, 173.59, 173.96; Calc. for C₂₅H₃₉NO₃ (437.61): C, 76.85; H, 8.98; N, 3.20. Found: C, 76.90; H, 9.19; N, 3.17. (S)-3,3-Dimethylbutyl 2-((S)-2-(6-methoxynaphthalen-2-yl)propanamido)-3-phenylpropanoate:

Clear oil, 82% yield; R_(f) 0.42 (Hexanes:ethyl acetate 4:1); ¹H N.MR (500 MHz, CDCl₃): δ0.83 (s, 9R), 1.36-1.40 (1, 2H, J=7.45 Hz), 1.57 (d, 3H, J=7.25 Hz), 2.94-3.05 (dq, 2H, J=5.75, 13.8 Hz), 3.65-3.70 (q, 1H, J=7.20 Hz), 3.91 (s, 3R), 3.99-4.10 (m, 2R), 4.73-4.78 (m, 1R), 5.78 (d, 1H, J=7.75 Hz), 6.83-6.86 (m, 2H), 7.02-7.06 (1, 2H, J=7.65 Hz), 7.09-7.15 (m, 3R), 7.29-7.32 (dd, 1H, J=1.80,8.50 Hz), 7.58 (s, 1R), 7.66 (dd, 2H, J=4.05, 8.68 Hz); ¹³C NMR (125 MHz, CDCl₃): δ18.1, 29.5, 29.6, 37.7, 41.5, 47.0, 53.1, 55.4, 63.2, 105.6, 119.1, 126.2, 126.4, 126.9, 127.5, 128.4, 129.0, 129.2, 129.3, 133.8, 135.6, 135.7, 157.8, 171.3, 173.9; Calc. for C₂₉H₃₅NO₄ (461.59): C, 75.46; H, 7.64; N, 3.03. Found: C, 75.03; H, 7.59; N, 3.03. (S)-3,3-Dimethylbutyl 2-(2-(1-(4-chlorobenzoyl)-5-methoxy-2-methyl-1H-indol-3-yl)acetamido)3-phenylpropanoate:

Light yellow oil, 92% yield; R_(f) 0.21 (Hexanes:ethyl acetate 4:1); ¹H NMR (500 MHz, CDCl₃): δ0.87 (s, 9R), 1.43-1.49 (1, 2H, J=7.50 Hz), 2.19 (s, 3R), 2.94-3.03 (m, 2H), 3.55-3.63 (q, 2H, J=17.5, 18.6 Hz), 3.80 (s, 3R), 4.06-4.15 (m, 2R), 4.78-4.82 (m, 1R), 5.97 (d, 1H, J=8.05 Hz), 6.72-6.75 (dd, 1H, J=2.55,9.03 Hz), 6.77 (d, 2H, J=7.15 Hz), 6.86 (d, 1H, J=2.45 Hz), 6.997.03 (m, 3R), 7.06-7.12 (m, 1R), 7.42 (d, 2H, J=8.75 Hz), 7.53 (d, 2H, J=7.75 Hz); ¹³C NMR (125 MHz, CDCl₃): δ13.3, 29.5, 29.7, 32.1, 37.6, 41.6, 52.9, 55.8, 63.3, 100.7, 112.5, 112.6, 115.2, 127.0, 128.4, 129.1, 129.2, 130.2, 131.0, 131.2, 133.7, 135.4, 136.0, 139.4, 156.4, 168.2, 169.3, 171.1; Calc. for C₃₄H₃₇ClN₂O₅ (589.12): C, 69.32; H, 6.33; N, 4.76. Found: C, 68.85; H, 6.13; N, 4.60. (S)-3,3-Dimethylbutyl 2-(2-(2-(2, 6-dichlorophenylamino)phenyl)acetamido)-3-phenylpropanoate

Light yellow oil, 92% yield; R_(f) 0.65 (Hexanes:ethyl acetate 4:1); ¹H NMR (500 MHz, CDCl₃): δ0.89 (s, 9H), 1.45-1.50 (m, 2H), 3.04-3.13 (m, 2H), 3.59-3.72 (q, 2H, J=14.4, 45.4 Hz), 4.064.18 (m, 2H), 4.83-4.87.(m, 1H), 6.13 (d, 1H, J=7.80 Hz), 6.50 (d, 1H, J=7.90 Hz), 6.89-6.98 (m, 3H), 6.95-6.98 (1, 1H, J=8.00 Hz), 7.10 (d, 2H, J=7.40 Hz), 7.16-7.19 (m, 3H), 7.32 (d, 2H, J=8.05 Hz), 7.36 (bs, 1H); ¹³C NMR (125 MHz, CDCl₃): δ29.5, 29.7, 37.7, 41.0, 41.6, 53.3, 63.4, 117.7, 121.6, 124.2, 124.4, 127.1, 128.0, 128.5, 128.8, 129.4, 130.1, 130.6, 135.6, 137.7, 143.0, 170.9, 171.3; Calc. for C₂₉H₃₂Cl₂N₂O₃·0.5H₂O (536.49): C, 64.92; H, 6.20; N, 5.22. Found: C, 64.99; H, 5.78; N, 5.05. (S)-3,3-Dimethylbutyl 2-amino-3-methylbutanoate:

Light yellow liquid, 64% yield; R_(f) 0.16 (hexanes:ethyl acetate: 4:1); ¹H NMR (500 MHz, CDCl₃): δ0.87 (d, 3H, J=6.85 Hz), 0.92 (s, 9H), 0.95 (d, 3H, J=6.90 Hz), 1.38-1.45 (bs, 2H), 1.53-1.57 (1, 2H, J=7.70 Hz), 1.97-2.02 (m, 1H), 3.23 (d, 1H, J=4.95 Hz), 4.13-4.16 (1, 2H, J=7.35 Hz); ¹³C NMR (125 MHz, CDCl₃): 8 17.2, 19.4, 29.6, 29.7, 32.1, 41.8, 60.0, 62.5, 175.7; HRMS (m/z): calc. for C₁₁H₂₃NO₂ 202.1802; meas. 202.1784. (S)-3,3-Dimethylbutyl 2-(2-(4-isobutylphenyl)propanamido)-3-methylbutanoate:

Clear liquid, 92% yield; R_(f) 0.55 (Hexanes:ethyl acetate 4:1); ¹H NMR (500 MHz, CDCl₃): δ0.64(d, 1.5H, J=6.90 Hz), 0.71-0.75 (dd, 3H, J=6.85,9.20 Hz), 0.83 (d, 1.5H, J=6.85 Hz), 0.85-0.87(m, 6H), 0.89 (s, 4.5H), 0.90 (s, 4.5H), 1.46-1.53 (m, 5H), 1.79-1.86 (m, 1H), 1.99-2.10 (m, 1H), 2.43 (d, 2H, J=7.20 Hz), 3.53-3.57 (q, 0.5H, J=7.15 Hz), 3.57-3.62 (q, 0.5H, J=7.30 Hz), 4.07-4.14 (m, 2H), 4.43-4.49 (m, 1H), 5.70-5.78 (dd, 1H, J=8.80, 24.8 Hz), 7.09-7.12 (m, 2H), 7.17-7.22 (m, 2H); ¹³C NMR. (125 MHz, CDCl₃): 0 17.3, 17.5, 18.1, 18.3, 18.9, 19.0, 22.2. 22.3, 29.5, 29.6, 29.7, 30.2, 31.2, 31.3, 41.6, 41.7, 45.0, 45.1, 46.8, 46.9, 56.8, 56.9, 62.9, 63.0, 127.3, 127.4, 129.7, 138.6, 140.8, 140.9, 171.9, 172.1, 174.1, 174.4; Calc. for C₂₄H₃₉NO₃ (389.57): C, 73.99; H, 10.09; N, 3.60. Found: C, 73.90; H, 10.50; N, 3.52. (S)-3,3-Dimethylbutyl 2((S)-2-(6-methoxynaphthalen-2-yl)propanamido)-3-methylbutanoate:

Clear oil, 99% yield; R_(f) 0.30 (Hexanes:ethyl acetate 4:1); ¹H NMR (500 MHz, CDCl₃): δ0.73 (d, 3H, J=6.90 Hz), 0:84 (s, 9H), 0.85 (d, 3H, J=7.00 Hz), 1.38-1.42 (1, 2H, J=7.65 Hz), 1.54 (s, 3H), 1.60 (d, 3H, J=7.20 Hz), 2.05-2.10 (m, 1H), 3.71-3.77 (m, 1H), 3.90 (s, 3H), 4.02-4.06 (1, 2H, J=7.45 Hz), 4.46-4.49 (dd, 1H, J=4.75,8.73 Hz), 7.09-7.14 (m, 2H), 7.36-7.40 (dd, 1H, J=1.65, 8.48 Hz), 7.68 (s, 1H), 7.69-7.72 (dd, 2H, J=5.50, 8.60 Hz); ¹³C NMR (125:MHz, CDCl₃): δ17.7, 18.5, 19.0, 20.8, 29.5, 29.6, 31.3, 41.6, 47.1, 55.3, 57.1, 62.9, 105.7, 119.1, 126.2, 126.4, 127.5, 129.0, 129.3, 133.8, 135.9, 157.7, 174.2, 186.2; Calc. for C₂₅H₃₅NO₄ (413.55): C, 72.61; H, 8.53; N, 3.39. Found: C, 72.62; H, 8.87; N, 3.29. (S)-3,3-Dimethylbutyl 2-(2-(1-(4-chlorobenzoyl)-5-methoxy-2-methyl-1H-indol-3-yl)acetamido)3-methylbutanoate:

White solid, 93% yield; mp 119-120° C., R_(f) 0.16 (Hexanes:ethyl acetate 4:1); ¹H NMR (500 MHz, CDCl₃): δ0.69 (d, 3H, J=6.90 Hz), 0.83 (d, 3H, J=6,85 Hz), 0.88 (s, 9H), 1.44-1.48 (1, 2H, J=7.55 Hz), 2.05-2.10 (m, 1H), 2.35 (s, 3H), 3.65 (m, 2H), 3.80 (s, 3H), 4.08-4.11 (1, 2H, J=7.50 Hz), 4.48-4.52 (dd, 1H, J=4.75,8.83 Hz), 6.07 (d, 1H, J=8.80 Hz), 6.68-6.71 (dd, 1H, J=2.50,9.00 Hz), 6.89 (d, 1H, J=2.45 Hz), 6.94 (d, 1H, J=9.00 Hz), 7.44-7.48 (m, 2H), 7.63-7.66 (m, 2H); ¹³C NMR (125 MHz, CDCl₃): δ13.4, 17.6, 19.0, 29.5, 29.7, 31.2, 32.3, 41.6, 55.7, 57.1, 63.1, 100.6, 100.9, 112.6, 112.7, 115.2, 129.2, 130.2, 131.0, 131.2, 133.7, 136.2, 139.5, 156.3, 169.7, 171.7; Calc. for C₃₀H₃₇ClN₂O₅ (541.08): C, 66.59; H, 6.89; N, 5.18. Found: C, 66.48; H, 7.12; N, 5.10. (S)-3,3-Dimethylbutyl 2-(2-(2-(2,6-dichlorophenylamino)phenyl)acetamido)-3-methylbutanoate:

Clear oil, 100% yield; R_(f) 0.54 (Hexanes:ethyl acetate 4:1); ¹H NMR (500 MHz, CDCl₃): δ0.85 (d, 3H, J=6.90 Hz), 0.88 (d, 3H, J=6.85 Hz), 0.90 (s, 9H), 1.49-1.53 (1, 2H, J=7.55 Hz), 2.11-2.15 (m, 1H), 3.72 (s, 2H), 4.12-4.16 (m, 2H), 4.53-4.57 (dd, 1H, J=4.90, 8.83 Hz), 6.16 (d, 1H, J=8.90 Hz), 6.50 (d, 1H, J=7.95 Hz), 6.89-6.92 (td, 1H, J=0.95, 7.45 Hz), 6.93-6.97 (1, 1H, J=8.00 Hz), 7.07-7.11 (td, 1H, J=1.55, 9.18 Hz), 7.16-7.19 (dd, 1H, J=1.35, 7.50 Hz), 7.31 (d, 2H, J=8.05 Hz), 7.36 (s, 1H); ¹³C NMR (125 MHz, CDCl₃): 0 17.8, 18.9, 29.6, 29.7, 31.4, 41.0, 41.7, 57.2, 63.1, 117.8, 121.6, 124.1, 124.8, 128.0, 128.8, 129.9, 130.5, 137.8, 143.0, 171.4, 171.9; Calc. for C₂₅H₃₂Cl₂N₂O₃ (479.44): C, 62.63; H, 6.73; N, 5.84. Found: C, 62.46; H, 6.48; N,5.66.

TABLE II Representative amino acid anti-inflammatory conjugates of Aspect II prepared by methods indicated herein are shown as examples, without limitation, of the compositions claimed herein.

NDH4476

NDH 4535

NDH4479

NDH4537

NDH4571

NDH4572

NDH4576

NDH4577

NDH4578

NDH4591

NDH4595

NDH4596

NDH4613

NDH4614

NDH4615

NDH4617

NDH4618

NDH4619

NDH4627

NDH4628

NDH4651

NDH4652

NDH4653

NDH4654

NDH 4483

All references cited herein are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties. 

What is claimed is: 1-21. (canceled)
 22. An anti-inflammatory drug—amino acid conjugate, comprising: (a) at least one anti-inflammatory compound conjugated with (b) an augmenting moiety comprising an anti-inflammatory amino acid-choline bioisostere ester or amide, wherein the amino acid is selected from the group consisting of valine, nor-valine, leucine, iso-leucine, glycine, cysteine, proline and phenylalanine; wherein said amino acid-choline bioisostere ester is an amino acid ester of H—OCH₂CH₂C(CH₃)₃ or H—OCH₂CH₂Si(CH₃)₃, and said amino acid-choline bioisostere amide is an amino acid amide of H₂NCH₂CH₂C(CH₃)₃ or H₂NCH₂CH₂Si(CH₃)₃; wherein conjugation of said conjugate is via the nitrogen atom of the amino acid of said augmenting moiety; and wherein the anti-inflammatory activity of the conjugate is greater than the sum of its parts.
 23. (canceled)
 24. The conjugate of claim 22, wherein said amino acid is selected from the group consisting of valine, glycine, proline and phenylalanine.
 25. (canceled)
 26. The conjugate of claim 22, wherein said anti-inflammatory compound is selected from the group consisting of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), vanilloids and ketone bodies.
 27. The conjugate of claim 26, wherein said NSAID is selected from the group consisting of diclofenac, ibuprofen, naproxen, and indomethacin; wherein said vanilloid is selected from the group consisting of vanillyl alcohol, 3-methoxy-4-acetyloxybenzyl alcohol, and vanillylamine; and wherein said ketone body is selected from the group consisting of 3-hydroxybutyrate and homologues thereof.
 28. An anti-inflammatory drug—amino acid conjugate having the structure of Formula (I) Formula (I) AI-NH—CHR—C(═O)O-Q¹ wherein AI represents an anti-inflammatory drug moiety selected from the group consisting of an NSAID-CO— moiety, a vanillyl-CO— moiety and a 3-hydroxybutyroyl moiety; wherein R is selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, isopropyl and benzyl; and wherein O-Q¹ is a choline isostere selected from the group consisting of O—CH₂CH₂C(CH₃)₃ and O—CH₂CH₂Si(CH₃)₃.
 29. An anti-inflammatory drug—amino acid conjugate having the structure of Formula (II) Formula (II) AI-NH—CHR—C(═O)—NH-Q² wherein AI represents an anti-inflammatory drug moiety selected from the group consisting of an NSAID-CO— moiety, a vanillyl-CO— moiety and a 3-hydroxybutyroyl moiety; wherein R is selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, isopropyl and benzyl; and Q² is —CH₂CH₂C(CH₃)₃, —CH₂CH₂Si(CH₃)₃ or 3-methoxy-4-hydroxybenzyl. 30-32. (canceled)
 33. A method of increasing the activity of an anti-inflammatory drug, comprising conjugating said anti-inflammatory drug with an amino acid augmenting moiety to provide an amino acid conjugate of claim
 28. 34-36. (canceled)
 37. The method of claim 33, wherein Q¹ is selected from the group consisting of —CH₂CH₂C(CH₃)₃ and —CH₂CH₂Si(CH₃)₃. 38-39. (canceled)
 40. The amino acid conjugate of claim 28, wherein for the NSAID-CO— moiety, the NSAID is selected from the group consisting of diclofenac, naproxen and indomethacin.
 41. The amino acid conjugate of claim 29, wherein for the NSAID-CO— moiety, the NSAID is selected from the group consisting of diclofenac, ibuprofen, naproxen and indomethacin.
 42. A method of increasing the activity of an anti-inflammatory drug, comprising conjugating said anti-inflammatory drug with an amino acid augmenting moiety to provide an amino acid conjugate of claim
 29. 43. The method of claim 42, wherein Q² is —CH₂CH₂C(CH₃)₃ or —CH₂CH₂Si(CH₃)₃.
 44. An anti-inflammatory drug—amino acid conjugate selected from the group consisting of:


45. An anti-inflammatory drug—amino acid conjugate of claim 44 selected from the group consisting of:


46. The anti-inflammatory drug—amino acid conjugate of claim 44, wherein said conjugate is


47. The anti-inflammatory drug—amino acid conjugate of claim 44, wherein said conjugate is


48. The anti-inflammatory drug—amino acid conjugate of claim 44, wherein said conjugate is


49. The anti-inflammatory drug—amino acid conjugate of claim 44, wherein said conjugate is


50. The anti-inflammatory drug—amino acid conjugate of claim 22, wherein said augmenting moiety is a valine ester or amide.
 51. The anti-inflammatory drug—amino acid conjugate of claim 22, wherein said augmenting moiety is a phenylalanine ester or amide.
 52. The anti-inflammatory drug—amino acid conjugate of claim 22, wherein said augmenting moiety is a proline ester or amide.
 53. The anti-inflammatory drug—amino acid conjugate of claim 22, wherein the amino acid of said amino acid-choline bioisostere ester or amide is selected from the group consisting of valine, glycine, proline and phenylalanine, and wherein said anti-inflammatory compound is selected from the group consisting of (1) the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs diclofenac, ibuprofen, naproxen, and indomethacin; (2) the vanilliods vanillyl alcohol, 3-methoxy-4-acetyloxybenzyl alcohol, and vanillylamine; and (3) the ketone bodies 3-hydroxybutyrate and homologues thereof.
 54. The conjugate of claim 22, wherein said augmenting moiety is an amino acid ester or amide of a vanilloid.
 55. The conjugate of claim 54, wherein said vanilloid is selected from the group consisting of vanillyl alcohol, vanillyl amine and phenol-protected derivatives thereof. 